Psychosocial Development Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development is one of the best-known theories of personality in psychology. According to this theory, personality develops in 8 stages. In each stage people experience a conflict that serves as a turning point in development. Conflicts are centred on either developing a psychological quality or failing to develop that quality. Each step builds on skills learned in previous steps. So, the stages are:
1. Trust vs. Mistrust (birth – 1 year)
This is the most fundamental stage in life. Any infant is very dependent, so the development of trust is based on the dependability and quality of the child’s caregivers. If a child successfully develops trust, he feels safe and secure in the world. Failure to develop trust results in fear and a belief that the world is inconsistent and unpredictable.
2. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (early childhood)
Children develop a greater sense of personal control. Learning to control one’s body functions leads to a feeling of control and a sense of independence. For example toilet training, food choices, toy preferences, and clothing selection are a vital part of this process. Children who successfully complete this stage feel secure and confident, others feel inadequacy and self-doubt.
3. Initiative vs. Guilt (preschool years)
Children assert their power and control over the world through directing play and other social interaction. Children who are successful at this stage feel capable and able to lead others. Those who fail are left with a sense of guilt, self-doubt and lack of initiative.
4. Industry vs. Inferiority (early school years)
5-11-years-old children socially interact and develop a sense of pride in their accomplishments and abilities. Children who are encouraged and commended by parents and teachers develop a feeling of competence and belief in their skills. Those who receive little or no encouragement from parents, teachers, or peers doubt their ability to be successful.
5. Identity vs. Confusion (adolescence)
Children explore their independence and develop a sense of self. Successful persons gain strong sense of self and a feeling of independence and control. Those who remain unsure of their beliefs and desires feel insecure and confused about themselves and the future.
6. Intimacy vs. Isolation (early adulthood)
People explore personal relationships. Those who are successful develop close and secure relationships. Those who fail can suffer emotional isolation, loneliness, and depression.
7. Generativity vs. Stagnation (adulthood)
People continue to build their lives, focusing on their career and family. Successful men feel they contribute to the world by being active in their home and community. Those who fail to attain this skill feel unproductive and uninvolved in the world.
8. Integrity vs. Despair (old age)
Elderly people reflect back on life. At this stage unsuccessful people feel that their life has been wasted and feel many regrets, bitterness and despair. Those who are proud of their accomplishments feel a sense of integrity. Successfully completing this phase means looking back with few regrets and a general feeling of satisfaction. These people get wisdom, even when confronting death.

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