Erikson's Eight Stages Of Development

Erik Erikson Psychosocial Theory: Eight Stages of Development

How does one find the sense of who they are? There are several theorists that have created a theory explaining how identity develops. However, the majority of the theorist that has spoken on development believes that identity is determined by adulthood. Erik Erikson a stage theorist differed in those beliefs, he believed that we are always evolving and our identity is steadily changing up until death. Erik Erikson was a psychoanalyst whose work was greatly influenced by Sigmund Freud. Unlike, Freud who based development on sexual energy, Erikson believed that we development through social interaction and relationships. Erikson’s psychosocial stages of development consists eight

The quality of the relationship between the primary caregiver and the infant is essential for the infant to thrive. The wellbeing of an infant being intrauterine, making sure prenatal vitamins are taken, the consumption of healthy food, and keeping a healthy environment. Trust and mistrust develops naturally with the experiences that occur between the parent and child. The infant is helpless and totally dependent on the caregiver for all of its survival needs. Freud oral stage can be compared to this stage they both relate to feeding. In order for this stage to be completed successfully all the infants’ basic needs must be met. If the infant needs are not met mistrust is developed, and could tarnish the way the infant views the world. The infant will not feel secure or have confidence in the world around

Intimacy is the ability to fuse your identity with someone else as noted by Erikson. Intimacy is not only romantic or sexual relationships but any important relationships consisting of love. Not only are committed relationships are formed, but working on the construction of the future, starting a family, and a career. Self become the main reliance when accomplishing goals. Failure to build committed relationships leads to isolation and the feeling of loneness with the absence of