Erikson Theory Timeline

  • Robin develops a favorite toy

    Robin (age 2) develops a new favorite toy, a small wooden horse, all by herself. In Erikson's second stage, Autonomy versus Shame, the crisis is between one learning to perform activities on their own and succeeding (Autonomy) or attempting and failing and as result developing a lack of confidence or Shame.
  • Robin opens up to her new boyfriend Mark

    Robin (age 22) takes a risk and opens up to her boyfriend Mark and they start a great relationship. In Erikson's sixth stage, Intimacy versus Isolation, one will begin to experience either a good, loving relationship and is supported (Intimacy) or will have a poor relationship and possibly experience mental illnesses such as depression (Isoloation).
  • Robin reflects on her life as she passes

    Robin (age 70) reflects on her life, and while she regrets going as early as she does, she looks around at her husband Mark, her two children, Austin and Stephanie, and she starts to realize she is leaving a positive legacy behind with them and passes peacefully in her sleep. In Erikson's final stage, Integrity versus Despair, one must come to a realization of peace and accept that they lived a fulfilling life and are satisfied (Integrity) or they are disappointed and become bitter (Despair).