Autonomy Versus Doubt-Second Stage

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Autonomy versus Doubt- Second Stage (One Year- Three Years). Erikson’s second stage of life takes place from one year to three years with the following crisis: autonomy versus doubt. The important event at this stage is toilet training with the basic virtue of will (Erikson, 1997). Due to biological maturation in this stage, children can now stand up on their own two feet, begin to explore the world, and repeatedly regurgitate the following words: me, mine, no, and are unable to say yes (Erikson, 1997). These contradictory impulses enabled them to develop a sense of autonomy. For example, children are now able to stand up on their individual two feet to explore the world on their own (Erikson, 1997, p. 47). Mastery of self-control is extremely …show more content…

Shame is not being able to look into someone’s eyes, while doubt stems from a realization that one is not so powerful after all (Erikson, 1997). It is important for children to control their impulses and to renounce what is not worth doing to develop a sense of independence (Erikson, 1997). Success leads to the feeling of autonomy, failure results in feelings of shame and doubt (Erikson, 1997). The syntonic attributes to the development of a mature ego-identity during adolescence. “I am an independent person who can choose freely and who can guide my own development and my own future” (Erikson, 1997, p. 49). An important quote made by Erikson to clarify the happenings of the second stage. Dystonic outcomes at this stage lead to two problems: adolescences becoming so self-conscious and lacking in autonomy that they are afraid of being seen in an exposed and vulnerable situation, therefore, being unable to form an appropriate identity (Erikson, 1997). In another view, entering adolescence with too much of their immature autonomy still unresolved may contribute to brash and shameless defiance of parents, teachers, and other authorities (Erikson, …show more content…

The three elements that contribute to the ethical foundations of psychotherapy are: an emphasis on relationship, an awareness of social and cultural context (Welchman, 2000). Erikson developed a positive use of unconscious communications of transference and countertransference. This helps provide vital steps towards a full recognition of social context. Interdisciplinary Approach Erikson’s goal was to bridge gaps between psychoanalysis and other established disciplines. He was influenced by his life time occurrences, personal contacts, and discussions from different disciplines. The four areas he took into consideration were: history, sociology, political science and religion (Welchman, 2000). Early Childhood

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