Analyzing Erikson's Eight Stages Of Development

Erikson stated human personality develops in “epigenetic stages”, and each stage progresses into the next stage (1963). Erikson stages progresses, both internally and socially and this development is interrelated. Erikson’s theory is similar to a search for identity through the experiences of life that combine and shapes them into a being. According to Erikson, every being goes through these eight stages, how one manages these stage determine who they are, which contributes to the formation of the ego (1963, 1968). In stage one, the issue of trust versus mistrust regarding one’s caregiver and the environment forms. The infant is totally dependent on the caregiver and the environment to meet all needs. Whether or not those needs are met and

The formation of identity is beginning, so the ego is fragile and without proper guidance and confirmation individuals develop self-esteem issue that follows one into adulthood. (Gonzales-DeHass, Willems, 2012). Erikson called it the autonomy versus shame and doubt stage, and the virtue or strength created during this stage is will (1963). Stage three the preschooler, explorers and uses play to discover their world. Language skills are more developed, and the imagination is heightened. Initiative versus guilt are the possible outcomes and purpose is the virtue (Erikson, 1963). Erikson stated unresolved sexual feeling towards the opposite parent can lead to guilt and shame (1963). Stage four, school age children have a bigger world to explore. A balance of approval and limits are crucial (Berzoff, 2011). Ego competence is being shaped in the sense the discovery and the mastery of new abilities and talents. Erikson called this industry vs inferiority, and the virtue is

Erikson coined the term “epigenesis” in 1950. The term explains the ground plan until completion or functioning whole (Robbins, Chatterjee & Canda, pg 213). The holistic approach of explaining the life span and the foundation of the ego encompasses Mr. Frenchy as a mortal and his experiences during life through these phases. This gives strength to perspective. Second, the theory does not discuss just one aspect of the person, but defines the complete person and also generates very different outcomes based on the internal and the external influences. Third, the theory regarding various stage initiated more research and the creation of other theorist such as Marcia, Havighurst, and Levinson (Robbbins, Chatterjee & Canda, pg