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Alex's Trust vs. Mistrust
Age: 3 Months
Alex is starting to develop trust with her grandparents, who take care of her the most. She is comfortable getting carried by them and cries when someone else takes them away. Erikson says this stage is when a child can successfully develop trust. If a child can't develop trust with a person, they will feel scared and feel that the world isn't consistent and unsafe. -
Alex's Identity vs. Role Confusion
16
Alex starts to build her identity by focusing on what her values and interests. She gains a sense of individuality which leads her to be able to feel less pressured to live by societal expectations.
Erikson describes the development of the ego identity through social interaction. Identity is essential because it's what sticks with us through the rest of our lives. Not having a solid sense of self will lead to insecurity and confusion about who they are and their future. -
Alex's Intimacy vs. Isolation
Age: 20
Alex starts to build strong relationships with a partner and friends. She learns to love and maintain relationships. Erikson finds creating committed relationships essential to build long-lasting and secure relationships. Those who lack identity tend to have less committed relationships and can be more emotionally unavailable, lonely, and depressed.