Erik Erikson's Psychosocial Theory: The Eight Stages Of Life

Erik Erikson's Psychosocial Theory: The Eight Stages Of Life

Erik Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory: The Eight Stages of Life

Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development is called the Eight Stages of Life. Erikson, like Freud, based his theory on nurture; however, Erikson, unlike Freud, was able to expand and apply a great deal more field and clinical study into his work. Erikson states that there are eight fundamental stages and within those stages, people will experience crisis that will serve as a turning point in development. Each stage is about becoming competent in an area of life; with either negative or positive results. During these times of conflict, the potential for positive personal growth is high; but so is the risk of failure. According to Erikson’s theory, healthy personal development is achieved by gaining balance between the positive and the negative at each stage.
Stage One: Trust vs. Mistrust (birth to approximately twelve months)
In this stage an infant develops trust based on whether or not their needs are being met. If an infant has their needs met, they build trust. However, it is important to say that Erikson believed that it was important for an infant not to be over-indulged as to obtain a realistic sense of trust. In this stage if an infant is not cared for or abused, they will likely, be distrustful. The proper balance in this stage promotes a general sense of “well-being”.
Stage Two: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (one year to three years)
This stage requires that the toddler become more independent. It is while trying to achieve the beginnings of self-reliance, that the difference is made. Erikson’s theory states that toddlers at this stage of development are best treated with patience and encouragement. If they are treated gently when in this “me” stage, they develop a positive sense of will-power and self-control. According to Erikson, toddlers that are not successful at this stage develop feelings of shame, and doubt. He believed that this left the individual...