Erikson’s Psycho-Social Theory of Development
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this Module, you should be able to:
explain the 8 Stages of Life to someone you care about.
write a short story of your life using Erikson's stages as a framework.
suggest at least 6 ways in which Erikson's theory can be useful for you as a future
teacher.
Introduction
Erik Erikson (1902–1994) proposed a lifespan model of development that highlights how
social relationships influence our sense of self. According to Erikson, we move through eight
stages of psychosocial development, each characterized by a central conflict – known as a
psychosocial crisis – that needs to be resolved for healthy personality growth.
Introduction to the eight Stages:
Psychosocial Concept – Erikson’s theory combines psychological (mind, personality)
and social (relationships, environment) aspects. It sometimes includes biological
influences.
Freudian Influence – Erikson built on Freud’s ideas but incorporated cultural and social
aspects, expanding beyond Freud’s biological and sexual focus.
Development of Ideas – Erikson’s own experiences shaped his psychosocial crisis
model, influencing how he understood personality development.
Relevance & Application – His theory is widely used for personality analysis, self-
development, and education, helping teachers and individuals understand behavior.
Powerful & Accessible Model – Erikson’s eight stages are practical and relevant for
teaching, parenting, coaching, and personal growth.
Variations in Terminology – Erikson’s theory is sometimes called biopsychosocial
theory, life cycle development, or psychosocial theory, all referring to the same core
model.
Epigenetic Principle – Personality develops in a natural, predetermined sequence, like a
flower blooming. Interfering with the process can disrupt development.
Psychosocial Crisis – Each stage involves conflicting emotional forces (e.g., Trust vs.
Mistrust). Successfully balancing them leads to growth.
Virtue & Balance – Successfully managing crises results in psychosocial strengths
(virtues) that help individuals navigate life.
Consequences of Failure – Failing a stage can lead to maladaptation (excessive positive
traits) or malignancies (excessive negative traits), affecting future development.
Stages are Not Strict Steps – Development overlaps and blends rather than following
clear-cut transitions.
Gradual & Organic Change – Changes happen like interwoven fingers, not like neatly
stacked boxes. Personality development is continuous and interconnected. Personality
development is continuous and interconnected.
Mutuality & Generativity – Generational influence is key; parents, children, and
grandchildren shape each other’s experiences. Generativity vs. Stagnation (Stage 7)
focuses on guiding the next generation.
The Eight Psychosocial Stages of Development
Stage 1. Trust vs. Mistrust (0-18 Months)
During infancy, children rely entirely on caregivers for support and consistency. If their
needs (food, comfort, affection) are consistently met, the infant typically develops a sense of
trust, believing the world is safe and predictable. Conversely, unpredictable or neglectful care
leads to mistrust and anxiety
Stage 2. Autonomy vs. Shame & Doubt (18 Months–3 Years)
Toddlers begin exploring their environment and asserting independence in tasks like
dressing themselves or choosing foods. If caregivers encourage these efforts, children feel a
sense of autonomy – confidence in their ability to handle challenges. Overly critical or
controlling caregivers can make the child doubt their abilities, leading to shame and doubt.
Stage 3. Initiative vs. Guilt (3–5 Years)
At this stage, children devise new games, imagine different roles, and learn to plan and
execute activities. Encouragement fosters initiative—a willingness to try new things.
Criticism or discouragement can produce guilt, making children feel they are a nuisance or
that their ideas are unacceptable.
Stage 4. Industry vs. Inferiority (5–12 Years)
As children enter school, they compare their abilities to peers and seek to demonstrate
competence. Support from teachers and parents helps them develop industry—confidence in
skills and productivity. Without such support, or when faced with persistent failures, children
risk feeling inferior and unmotivated.
Stage 5. Identity vs. Role Confusion (12–18 Years)
During adolescence, the focus is on discovering “Who am I?” Teens explore different
roles, values, and goals. When they are free to experiment—and receive guidance without
pressure—they often develop a strong sense of identity. If they feel restricted, confused, or
overwhelmed, they may experience role confusion.
Stage 6. Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young Adulthood, 18–40 Years)
Young adults seek close bonds and relationships that involve mutual care and trust.
Successful formation of these intimate connections leads to intimacy—the willingness to be
open, vulnerable, and committed. Struggling to form meaningful relationships can cause
isolation, characterized by loneliness and sometimes depression.
Stage 7. Generativity vs. Stagnation (40–65 Years)
In mid-adulthood, individuals focus on guiding the next generation, whether through
parenting, mentoring, or community involvement. Successfully contributing to others’
growth fosters generativity—the sense of productivity and accomplishment. Feeling
unproductive or disconnected, by contrast, produces stagnation.
Stage 8. Ego Integrity vs. Despair (65+ Years)
In late adulthood, people reflect on their lives and accomplishments. If they view their
experiences as meaningful, they achieve ego integrity—a sense of satisfaction and readiness
to face life’s end. Those who feel they’ve fallen short may experience despair, marked by
regret, bitterness, or fear of death.
