real life examples of erikson's stages of development

Breiz Heurope

4 min read

·

07-03-2025

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Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development proposes eight stages, each presenting a unique psychosocial crisis that must be resolved for healthy personality development. Let's explore each stage with relatable real-life examples:

Stage 1: Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy: 0-18 months)

The Crisis: Developing a sense of trust in caregivers and the world.

Real-Life Examples:

• Positive Resolution: A baby whose needs are consistently met – fed, changed, cuddled – develops a sense of trust. They learn to expect their needs will be cared for, leading to a secure attachment. This baby might readily approach new people and situations feeling safe.
• Negative Resolution: A baby who experiences neglect or inconsistent care may develop mistrust. They learn that their needs may not be met, leading to anxiety and insecurity. This child might be wary of strangers and struggle to form close relationships later in life.

Stage 2: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (Early Childhood: 2-3 years)

The Crisis: Developing a sense of personal control over physical skills and independence.

Real-Life Examples:

• Positive Resolution: A toddler learning to use the toilet, dress themselves, or feed themselves experiences a sense of accomplishment and autonomy. This builds self-confidence and independence. They might proudly declare "I did it myself!"
• Negative Resolution: A toddler constantly criticized for accidents or struggles with self-help skills may develop shame and doubt. This can lead to low self-esteem and a dependence on others. This child might become overly reliant on others for reassurance and validation.

Stage 3: Initiative vs. Guilt (Preschool: 3-5 years)

The Crisis: Developing initiative and planning their actions.

Real-Life Examples:

• Positive Resolution: A preschooler who actively participates in imaginative play, initiates projects, and asks questions develops a sense of initiative. They are curious and eager to learn and explore. They might enthusiastically direct their playmates and begin to show leadership qualities.
• Negative Resolution: A preschooler who is constantly criticized or punished for their efforts may develop feelings of guilt and self-doubt. They may become hesitant to take initiative and avoid new challenges. They might withdraw from social interactions, fearing criticism.

Stage 4: Industry vs. Inferiority (School Age: 6-11 years)

The Crisis: Developing competency and achievement.

Real-Life Examples:

• Positive Resolution: A child who excels academically, participates in sports, or masters a musical instrument develops a sense of industry. This builds confidence and a belief in their abilities. They might strive for excellence in various aspects of life.
• Negative Resolution: A child who struggles academically, is socially isolated, or experiences repeated failure may develop feelings of inferiority. This can lead to low self-esteem and a lack of motivation. They might avoid challenges, fearing further failure.

Stage 5: Identity vs. Role Confusion (Adolescence: 12-18 years)

The Crisis: Developing a sense of self and personal identity.

Real-Life Examples:

• Positive Resolution: A teenager exploring different interests, values, and beliefs develops a strong sense of self. They understand their strengths and weaknesses, and embrace their individuality. They might explore different careers and life goals, eventually settling on a clear path.
• Negative Resolution: A teenager struggling with identity, unsure of their place in the world, or experiencing pressure to conform may develop role confusion. This can lead to uncertainty about their future, leading to instability and confusion about their personal identity. They might struggle to make commitments or avoid self-reflection.

Stage 6: Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young Adulthood: 19-40 years)

The Crisis: Forming intimate, loving relationships with others.

Real-Life Examples:

• Positive Resolution: A young adult who forms close relationships with friends, family, or a romantic partner develops a sense of intimacy. They are capable of forming deep, meaningful connections and commitment. They are comfortable with vulnerability and trust.
• Negative Resolution: A young adult who struggles to form close relationships or experiences repeated relationship failures may develop feelings of isolation and loneliness. They might avoid intimacy, fearing rejection or vulnerability. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Stage 7: Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle Adulthood: 40-65 years)

The Crisis: Creating or nurturing things that will outlast them, often through parenting or mentoring.

Real-Life Examples:

• Positive Resolution: A middle-aged adult who actively contributes to their community, raises a family, or mentors younger colleagues develops a sense of generativity. They feel a sense of purpose and fulfillment, contributing to something larger than themselves. They might actively engage in social causes or create something lasting.
• Negative Resolution: A middle-aged adult who feels unproductive or unfulfilled may experience stagnation. They might become self-absorbed, and feel a lack of purpose, leaving them with a sense of emptiness.

Stage 8: Integrity vs. Despair (Maturity: 65+ years)

The Crisis: Reflecting on life and accepting its meaning.

Real-Life Examples:

• Positive Resolution: An older adult who looks back on their life with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction develops integrity. They accept their life's journey, imperfections and all. They can look back with contentment and a sense of peace.
• Negative Resolution: An older adult who regrets their past choices or feels unfulfilled may experience despair. They might dwell on their mistakes and feel regret, leading to bitterness and dissatisfaction with their life.

These examples illustrate how Erikson's stages manifest in daily life. It's important to remember that these are not rigid categories, and individuals may experience these stages differently and at varying paces. Successfully navigating each crisis contributes to a healthy and well-adjusted personality.