Erikson's Eight Stages Of Human Development

Erik Erikson was a developmental psychologist who is most recognized for his eight-stage theory based on the development of humans. Erikson first developed this theory in 1950 and the theory was initially in accordance with Sigmund Freud’s theory (Psychoanalytic theory) but disagreed with Freud that the personality of an individual is based upon early childhood experiences. Not only did Erikson disagree but he then continued to extend the initial stages of human development further into adolescence, adulthood, and old age. Whilst the fact that the article went over the initial eight stages, it’s primary focus was on the stage generativity vs. stagnation and acknowledges that generativity is the means of our society and the development of

Even though Erikson’s theory was incorporated with Freud’s early works, he continued to branch the theory by emphasizing adolescent’s tasks of identifying development. Erikson began using a chart which was sued to describe the human development and it includes the initial eight stages. Though there were eight stages, Erikson left blank sixty-four boxes to be used as a tool and for future researchers to complete the remaining squares with drawing relationships. The initial eight stages go as follows; trust vs. mistrust, autonomy vs. shame and doubt, initiative vs. guilt, industry vs. inferiority, identity vs. identity diffusion, intimacy vs. isolation, generativity vs. stagnation, and integrity vs. despair. In analyzing the chart, it is acknowledged that each stage proceeds one another and no one bypasses the stages. However, an individual does not necessarily need to master the stage in question and revisit the stage in order to complete it thoroughly. In the second chart that was mentioned, Erikson goes more in-depth about the fifth stage; identity versus identity diffusion but adds a precursor for generativity versus stagnation; leader and followership vs. authority

This stage is presented around middle adulthood and this is an important event for parenting roles and forming relationships with children. Children are in need of being taken care of while adults are needed. Generativity is making use of time and helping those around them such as the community or relationships while stagnation is the polar opposite which refers to failure in finding ways to contribute back. It is stated that everyone faces difficulties when entering parenthood and we see that not everyone comes across parenthood the same way. We see how culture takes a role in development as it is custom in the U.S for children to leave the home while in different cultures, it’s not viewed the same way. Generativity is essential for individuals and society as well. The research conducted had the concept of identity and stage developments while having an Eriksonian viewpoint. Those involved with the research take the term of identity status to describe how adolescents choose how to navigate towards finding their own identity and character. Marcia’s work in generativity in women show that those who worked alongside identity achievement, diffusion, and more are said to be pathfinders, guardians, etc. Bradley took Marcia’s concept and used it to view the adult stages of generativity and stagnation. It was shown that those who took her NEO personality inventory could be rated high