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Chloe's Favorite: Autonomy versus Shame and Doubt
Chloe (age 2) is experiencing new types of foods as she grows. Her favorite is pasta. Chloe's parents add two new foods to her plate, including pasta, so that she can feed herself her favorite food and try new ones at her own pace. Chloe's parents applaud her each time she tries one of the new foods. In Erikson's 2nd stage, children learn to be independent through simple choices. Caregivers' actions can reinforce confidence in their choices or leave them feeling doubtful and ashamed of them. -
Chloe Making Honor Roll: Industry versus Inferiority
Chloe (age 10) has received an Honor Roll award for her exceptional grades. Besides excelling academically, Chloe is also the top player on her soccer team. According to Erikson's stage four, mastering a skill like school, friendships, and sports gives a great sense of accomplishment. When others acknowledge these successes, it makes the individual feel proud. On the other hand, being unable to receive praise or acquire a new skill might make one feel less accomplished than other children. -
Chloe's Goals: Identity versus Confusion
Chloe ( age 17) has decided to become a nurse. She has written out her goals to attend college and the classes she will need. She is on track to graduate high school with a 4.0 GPA. Instead of going out with friends, she studies extra long. These decisions please her parents. Erikson's stage five is where individuals discover their own values, beliefs, and goals. If they are successful, they feel in control of their lives. If not, the individual feels lost at who they are and what they want.