Erickson´s Stages of Development

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Stages of Development There are many theories used to explain human development. All of the different theories have been helpful in understanding the different stages of growth and development. Having learned the different theories gave me a better understanding on how I can take care of my patients and gain insight on what motivates human thought and behavior. The theory that best fits my perception of the stages of development is Erikson’s Theory because of the belief that personality develops in each stage. Personality develops in each stage through family and social experiences, which forms a person's identity. Our identity is constantly changing through life experiences and through interactions with others. Erikson’s Theory has eight psychosocial stages. The stages are: trust versus mistrust, autonomy versus sense of shame and doubt, initiative versus guilt, industry versus inferiority, identity versus role confusion, intimacy versus isolation, generativity versus self-absorption and stagnation and integrity versus despair. Trust versus mistrust, which is birth to one year, is the most fundamental stage of life because infants are much more dependent on their parents or caregivers for everything. “Starting with oral satisfaction, the infant learns to trust the caregiver as well as self” (Potter & Perry, 2005, p. 160). The parents or caregivers need to be consistent in their care so the infant will feel safe and develop trust. When parents are inconsistent with their care, the infants might feel scared or rejected and will develop mistrust. Autonomy versus sense of shame and doubt, which is one year to three years of age, focuses on developing a new sense of independence such as walking, feeding and toileting. This ... ... middle of paper ... ...ll offer support and understanding with the changes and challenges of growth and development to the children and parents or caregivers. In the last three stages of Erikson's theory, the nurse needs to understand the patient as an individual. Nurses are in the position to hopefully influence a sense of satisfaction and teach adults to find acceptance and integrity. In conclusion, it is important for children to navigate through various developmental stages as they grow. I think all of the developmental theories and help in understanding the different stages of growth. Erikson’s psychosocial development model is what best fits my perception. All eight stages have one thing in common, finding balance in all of the stages is important to live healthy, fulfilling lives. In general, people of all ages need to find value in themselves, and feel needed and appreciated

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