-
Aspen's Curious Nature: Initiative vs Guilt
Aspen (5) has always had a curiosity about her. She likes to stack her blocks tall to see how they fall. She likes to mix paint to see what different colors she can make. Instead of reprimanding her, Aspen's parents encourage her to explore. In Erikson's initiative vs guilt, the discourse comes from the way parents allow their children to interact with the world by either encouraging them (initiative) which fosters a greater curiosity or reprimanding them (guilt) which may build guilt. -
Aspen's solidarity: Identity vs Confusion
Aspen (18) regularly attends social rallies in support of her political views and values. She supports her peers and is often at the forefront. This gives her a definite sense of her own identity and what she stands for. In Erikson's identity vs confusion, the main conflict in this stage of life is finding one's own identity which provides a sense of self and a feeling of control. Otherwise, the person may find themselves insecure and confused about who they are. -
Aspen's flourishing relationships: Intimacy vs isolation
Aspen (23) has found a stable place in her world. She has friends that she can confide in and rely on. She has a partner who understands her and cares for her. She can safely say that she feels valued. In Eriksons's intimacy vs isolation, the conflict at this stage is forming strong relationships which includes intimate relationships. An important aspect of this stage is that the previous stage must have resolved. If this stage is not resolved, then feelings of isolation and loneliness may occur