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Trust vs. Mistrust (0 to 1 1/2)
Infancy (0 to 1 1/2)
During this stage, the infant is uncertain about the world in which they live. To resolve these feelings of uncertainty, the infant looks towards their primary caregiver for stability and consistency of care. -
Autonomy vs. Shame (1 1/2 to 3)
Early Childhood (1 1/2 to 3)
The child is developing physically and becoming more mobile. Between the ages of 18 months and three, children begin to assert their independence, by walking away from their mother, picking which toy to play with, and making choices about what they like to wear, to eat, etc. -
Initiative vs. Guilt (3 to 5)
Play Age (3 to 5)
During this period the primary feature involves the child regularly interacting with other children at school. Central to this stage is play, as it provides children with the opportunity to explore their interpersonal skills through initiating activities. -
Industry vs Inferiority (5 to 12)
School Age (5 to 12)
Children are at the stage where they will be learning to read and write, to do sums, to do things on their own. Teachers begin to take an important role in the child’s life as they teach the child specific skills. -
Ego identity vs. Role Confusion (12 to 18)
Adolescence (12 to 18)
The fifth stage is identity vs. role confusion, and it occurs during adolescence, from about 12-18 years. During this stage, adolescents search for a sense of self and personal identity, through an intense exploration of personal values, beliefs, and goals. -
Intimacy vs. Isolation (18 to 40 years)
Young Adult (18 to 40)
Occurring in young adulthood (ages 18 to 40 yrs), we begin to share ourselves more intimately with others. We explore relationships leading toward longer-term commitments with someone other than a family member. -
Generativity vs. Stagnation (40 to 65)
Adult Hood (40 to 65)
During middle adulthood (ages 40 to 65 yrs), we establish our careers, settle down within a relationship, begin our own families and develop a sense of being a part of the bigger picture. -
Ego Integrity vs. Dispair (65+)
Maturity (65+)
As we grow older (65+ yrs) and become senior citizens, we tend to slow down our productivity and explore life as a retired person. It is during this time that we contemplate our accomplishments and can develop integrity if we see ourselves as leading a successful life.
