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Erikson's first stage: trust versus mistrust
Baby Anna (6 months old) has a caring and loving family. She is well taken care of by her mother, father, siblings, and other relatives. From having a family that is loving and caring Anna develops an optimistic view of the world. The crisis is between having an adequate support system as an infant or not being well supported as an infant. Having great care as an infant results in trust in others and the world while not having great care results in mistrust of others and the world. -
Erikson's second stage: autonomy versus shame and doubt
Anna is now 2 years old and her parents allow her to choose any toy that she wants from the toy store. The crisis is between a child being able to make decisions on their own or a child receiving extreme discipline and guidance. From having the ability to make their own decisions children develop independence and from not being able to have much freedom children develop humiliation and indecisiveness. Since Anna's parents allow her to choose any toy she develops an independent personality. -
Erikson's fifth stage: identity versus identity confusion
Anna is now 17 years old and a senior in high school. She's unsure about herself regarding what she wants to do after she graduates, whether that means going to college or pursuing a different career path that doesn't require tertiary education. The crisis is between an adolescent's self-awareness development, abilities, and where they fit in society or the struggle to achieve and identify these characteristics causing a puzzled idea of oneself.