Erikson's Eight Psychosocial Stages

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that Erik Erikson is perhaps one of the most well-known ego-psychologists in modern social science. The writer explains that Erikson follows Sigmund Freud's idea of development and furthers it by focusing on society and cultural factors influencing the development of individuals. The writer points out that Erikson is known for his theory based on the epigenetic principle. The epigenetic principle is basically an extension of Freud's theory of stages. The writer looks at Erikson's theory that personality development goes through eight stages. The writer concludes that Erikson's theoretical framework explains adolescent stage as the struggle associated with adolescent maturity. However, the writer is of the view that adolescence does not necessarily mean struggle.

Outline:
Introduction
Discussion
Development of Adolescents
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Each stage has particular crisis. For example stage one is characterized by trust vs. mistrust; stage two autonomy vs. shame and doubt; stage three initiative vs. guilt; stage four industry vs. inferiority; stage five ego-identity vs. role-confusion; stage six intimacy vs. isolation; stage seven generativity vs. self-absorption; and stage eight integrity vs. despair. One of the most important aspects of Erikson's' theory is the fact that he does not believe develop stops as the individual reaches adulthood. In fact Erikson believes that an individual continues to grow and develop even in old age, and hence stage eight.
"Erikson's theoretical premise is also characterized by the limitation he sets for each stage. This he terms as the optimal time which is required for the developmental success or failure of the stage. If the stage is managed well, individuals acquire certain virtue which helps them to deal with the other stages. The complexity of the individual personality therefore rests on the crisis development of each stage."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Brook, J. et al (2004). The Course and Psychosocial Correlates of Personality Disorder Symptoms in Adolescence: Erikson's Developmental Theory Revisited. Journal of Youth and Adolescence. Volume: 33. Issue: 5. pp.373+.
• Coughlan, F. and Welsh-Breetzke, A. (2002). The Circle of Courage and Erikson's Psychosocial Stages. Reclaiming Children and Youth. Volume: 10. Issue: 4. pp222+.
• Erikson, E. (1959). Identity and the Life Cycle. Psychological Issues Vol 1, No. 1.
• Erikson, E. H. (1963). Childhood and society. New York: W.W. Norton & Co., Inc.
• Erikson, E. H. (1968). Identity: Youth and Crisis. Norton, New York.

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