Erikson's Stages of Psychosocial Development states that each stage of life has its own psychosocial task that the individual needs to overcome. If the task, or crisis, is successfully dealt with, a basic virtue, or a characteristic strength, is gained.
Stage of Life (age)
Born to 1 year
1 to 3 years
3 to 6 years
6 years to puberty
Teen years into 20s
20s to early 40s
40s to 60s
late 60s and up
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Issue
Trust vs Mistrust
Autonomy vs Shame/Doubt
Initiative vs Guilt
Industry vs Inferiority
Identity vs Role Confusion
Intimacy vs Isolation
Generativity vs Stagnation
Ego Integrity vs Despair
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Basic Virtue
Hope
Will
Purpose
Competency
Fidelity/Devotion
Love/Affiliation
Care/Production
Wisdom
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Description
Uncertain infant looks towards caregiver for care. If consistant care is given, the infant gains trust,
If Caregiver lets child be independent, such as letting them dress themselves, a sense of autonomy is gained.
Children start to play with other childran and initiate games or plan activities. The sense of initiative is gained.
Children start to feel the need to win approval by showing off their skills as well as gaining pride in doing so. Industry, or competency, is gained.
Teenagers test different roles and hopefully integrating themselves into a single one.
Young adults struggle to form close relationships and to gain the capacity for intimate love.
People start to feel a sense of contribution to the world, usually through their work and family
People reflect on their lives, either feeling a sense of satisfaction or failure.
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