Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development
Definition
This is a theory proposed by Erik Erikson that outlines eight stages of development from infancy to adulthood. Each stage presents a crisis or conflict which, when resolved, leads to psychosocial growth.
Analogy
Think of these stages as levels in a video game. At each level, you face a new challenge (crisis) and once you overcome it, you gain new skills or insights (psychosocial growth) that help you in the next level.
Related terms
Trust vs Mistrust: The first stage in Erikson's theory where infants learn whether or not they can trust the world around them.
Identity vs Role Confusion: A stage during adolescence where individuals explore their identities and roles in society.
Integrity vs Despair: The final stage in Erikson's theory where older adults reflect on their lives and either feel satisfaction (integrity) or regret (despair).
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