Erik Erikson proposed a theory of psychosocial development that consists of eight stages. Each stage is defined by a unique conflict or crisis that individuals must resolve in order to develop a healthy sense of self and progress to the next stage. The stages of development according to Erikson are as follows:
1. Trust vs. Mistrust (infancy, 0-1 year): Infants learn to trust their caregivers and develop a sense of security, or they develop a sense of mistrust and fear.
2. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (toddlerhood, 1-3 years): Toddlers assert their independence and gain a sense of autonomy or face shame and doubt in their abilities.
3. Initiative vs. Guilt (preschool, 3-6 years): Preschoolers engage in imaginative play and take initiative in their activities, developing a sense of purpose, or they experience guilt for their assertiveness.
4. Industry vs. Inferiority (elementary school, 6-12 years): Children learn to be competent in their skills and social interactions, leading to a sense of accomplishment, or they develop feelings of inferiority and incompetence.
5. Identity vs. Role Confusion (adolescence, 12-18 years): Adolescents establish a sense of identity and develop a coherent self-concept, or they experience confusion and role conflict.
6. Intimacy vs. Isolation (young adulthood, 18-40 years): Young adults form close and meaningful relationships with others, experiencing intimacy, or they become isolated and fear rejection.
7. Generativity vs. Stagnation (middle adulthood, 40-65 years): Adults contribute to society and seek to leave a lasting impact, experiencing generativity, or they feel stagnant and unproductive.
8. Integrity vs. Despair (late adulthood, 65+ years): Older adults reflect on their lives and accomplishments, accepting their life choices and mortality with a sense of integrity, or they experience a sense of despair and disappointment.
These stages are not necessarily age-related and can be experienced throughout one's lifespan. It should also be noted that successful resolution of each stage is necessary for healthy development, as unresolved conflicts can have long-term impacts on a person's personality and overall well-being.
what are the stages of development according Erikson
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