Erik Erikson's Theories of Psychosocial Development Regarding Aging and Development

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Erik Erikson’s theories of development are among some of the best-known theories regarding aging and developing. Erikson divided the stages of life into eight categories: trust vs. mistrust, autonomy vs. shame, initiative vs. guilt, industry vs. inferiority, identity vs. confusion, intimacy vs. isolation, generativity vs. stagnation, and integrity vs. despair. Each stage offers its unique age frame and focus. Trust vs. mistrust happens between birth and 18 months of age. During this time, babies are beginning to learn who they can trust and who they can’t trust. This is the most fundamental stage of development because it determines if the child grows up believing the world is secure or if the world is inconsistent and unpredictable. It is important to have a good balance between the trust and doubt so the child will be open to experience new things when they mature. Autonomy vs. shame and doubt occurs in the adolescent years before preschool. This stage is important in teaching children the feeling of self control and independence. Children who are able to successfully complete this stage will have a sense of self confidence. Failing to positively complete this stage can result in self-doubt, and inadequacy. Initiative vs. guilt occurs during the preschool years. This stage allows children to learn how to assert their powers through social interactions. Children who are successful in this stage are able to be confident enough to lead others. Those who don’t succeed in this stage will have a feeling of self-doubt, guilt, and lack of initiative. I can relate to this stage because I never went to full time preschool. I was very shy when I entered kindergarten and had a hard time realizing I was able to be a leader and not a follo... ... middle of paper ... .... During this stage, older adults are reminiscing on their lives. They are analyzing what they have accomplished and what they have failed at in their life. Failure of this stage leads to regret, bitterness, and despair. On the other hand, success results in a feeling of content and wisdom. Erikson’s eight stages of life form a guideline of development. Each stage has the possibility of success and failure. With success one can lead a confident and self assured life. However, failure will lead to a life filled with feelings of regret, despair, and inadequacy. Society, family, and self exploration play a huge role in each stage. Each stage also offers its own, unique framework and goal. Works Cited http://psychology.about.com/od/psychosocialtheories/a/psychosocial_2.htm https://theoriesinpsychologyf10.wikispaces.com/Erikson's+Psychosocial+Stages+of+Development

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