Child developmental theories have made a large impact in the world of psychology. Many question which developmental theory is more credible, for each one is unique and supported by research. Two of the most supported theories are those of Erik Erikson and Jean Piaget. The difference between the two is growing up as a creative thinking individual versus having a logical thought process. Erikson’s theory focuses on the creativeness of a child, but still remains to be logical. Additionally, Erikson’s theory is more thorough than Piaget’s and relevant to modern psychology. From birth to death and everything in between, Erikson’s theory is able to provide an explanation for the reasons behind actions made throughout one’s life. Robert S. Feldman covers in his book, “Understanding Psychology,” that Erikson’s theory includes eight stages of development. Four of these developmental stages occur during childhood while the other four occur from adolescence through late adulthood; therefore, …show more content…
For example, Kenneth M. Coll, Patti Thobro, and Robin Haas claim in their article published in the Journal of Humanistic Counseling, Education and Development, that the Measure of Psychosocial Development (MPD), a “self-report inventory,” was structured from Erikson’s theory of development. The authors also reveal that Erikson, “... continues to be a valued comprehensive account of personality development.” Along with the MPD, Erikson’s theory draws in psychologists due to its aid in explaining the “complexity of personality development.” This also includes the numerous academic and career related fields that the theory encompasses relevancy to. Lastly, Erikson’s theory displays a positive outlook on one’s personality (Coll, Thobro, and Hass). The above reasons remain to be supported by psychologists in today’s society; therefore, Erikson’s theory remains to exemplify relevancy to modern day