Erikson's Stages

Paper Summary:

The paper examines Erikson's eight stages of psychosocial development and presents examples of each stage. The paper then evaluates the relevance of Erikson today. The paper points out that despite new developments, Erikson's stages remain a useful starting point for psychologists who are conducting research into the development of personality.

From the Paper:

"Erikson bases on psychosocial stages on the resolution of important conflicts. Each stage is characterized by a specific tension. To progress to the next stage of development, a person must be able to resolve that tension by overcoming the issues causing conflict.
The first stage, according to Erikson, lasts from birth to approximately 12 months. In this stage, an infant is struggling with trust vs. mistrust issues. She must learn that the world is not a scary place. If exposed to a loving and nurturing environment, she will learn to trust other people, especially her loved ones. If she does not overcome the tendency towards mistrust, she will see the world as a potential source of pain, frustration and uncertainty."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Asbury K, Dunn JF, Pike A, Plomin R. 2003. "Nonshared environmental influences on individual differences in early behavioral development: a monozygotic twin differences study." Child Development. 73:3.
• Culp, R. 2000. "Relationships Among Paternal Involvement and Young Children's Perceived Self-Competence and Behavioral Problems." Journal of Child and Family Studies. 9:1.
• Franz, C and White, K. 1985. "Individuation and attachment in personality development: Extending Erikson's theory." Journal of Personality. 53:2.

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