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Ben's Competencies: Industry vs. Inferiority
Ben (age 11) notices the amount of pride and accomplishments his peers have developed for themselves through their academics and hobbies, which makes Ben question his own abilities. In Erikson's fourth stage, industry versus inferiority, the crisis is between the need to win approval from others by exhibiting competencies or developing a sense of inferiority because of his lack of capability to measure up with his peers. -
Ben's Future: Identity vs. Confusion
Ben wishes to pursue a career in music after high school, but his parents are against his decision. His parents are healthcare workers, and they want Ben to follow after them for the safety of his future. In Erikson's fifth stage, identity versus confusion, the crisis is between believing in himself and going through with his music career or conforming with his parents' ideas about his future, which can eventually make Ben experience a role confusion and struggle with his identity. -
Ben's Influence: Generativity vs. Stagnation
Ben, who followed his musical ambitions, is now an influential singer, dancer and producer in his 40s. Seeing that he has fulfilled many achievements throughout his career, Ben wishes to contribute to the development of young artists who also want to be successful by sharing his experiences and advice. In Erikson's seventh stage, generativity versus stagnation, the crisis is between engaging in productive work that benefits society or becoming stagnant by failing to be involved in the community.