1. Erik Erikson’s Personality Theory
Psychosocial Development
throughout the
Life Span

2. Overview of the Theory
Erikson believed that at each stage in life, individual’s would face a specific challenge
While facing the challenge, individual’s may struggle personally and/or socially
Each person will ultimately follow one of the two life stage options

3. Trust vs. Mistrust
Infant’s basic needs are either met or not met by the parents
Parents are expected to provide food, caring, comfort
Infants learn whether or not people are reliable

4. Autonomy vs. Shame
Children begin to explore surroundings (if Trust is developed, use parents as a secure base)
Begin to develop own interests and try to do things on their own
Feeding
Dressing
Bathroom
Develop either self-sufficiency or a sense of shame about own abilities

5. Initiative vs. Guilt Undertaking, planning and executing a task
May feel guilt when initiative does not produce desired results
Accomplishing tasks on own
Testing limits/boundaries
Become more autonomous if plans are supported, but may develop guilt if parents or caregivers dismiss their plans

6. Industry vs. Inferiority
Development of self- confidence
Industry = hard working, sacrificing play for work
Inferiority = ridiculed or punished for lack of ability
Development of individual talents
Not doing so can lead to poor self-esteem

7. Identity vs. Role Confusion
Transition from childhood to adulthood
Development of personal identity, beliefs, values
May test personal limits
“Identity Crisis”
Often a conflict between personal desires and the expectations of others

8. Intimacy vs. Isolation
Blend own identities with those of friends or loved ones
Development of long- term relationships
Friendships
Marriage
Inability to develop close relationships may lead to a feeling of isolation

9. Generativity vs. Stagnation
Generativity – establishing and guiding the next generation
Contributing to society
Sense of productivity and accomplishment
Stagnation = dissatisfaction with the lack of personal productivity
“What have I contributed?”

10. Integrity vs. Despair Contemplation of personal accomplishments
Reflect upon one’s own life
Integrity = “I’ve had a successful life”
Despair = “I haven’t done what I’ve wanted to do”