Lifespan Development

  • Infancy - Trust vs. Mistrust

    Douglas was recently born and is being well cared for. He is held when he cried, food is readily available to him at all times, he is kept warm and his diaper is often attended too. Douglas has trust for his caregiver because he is being well taken care of. According to Erikson this is the stage of Trust Vs. Mistrust. Mistrust would take place if Douglas's needs where neglected and or not met.
  • Toddlerhood: Autonomy vs. shame and doubt.

    Douglas is a toddler who is learning to walk and he now eats most of his meals by himself even though it if a very messy process. Douglas according to Erikson is developing his own sense of self apart from others. His parents encourage his exploring behavior. Douglas is developing a sense of autonomy as he can now make some decisions of his own. When a toddler is being excessively punished they can become shameful and full of doubt in this stage.
  • Early Childhood: Initiative vs. guilt

    Douglas takes initiative to be helpful of his parents taking care of his new baby brother. He will run an grab diapers when he see's his mother laying his brother down to change his diaper. He also from time to time picks up his toys without being told out of the living room. Douglas takes initiative and is thriving. He often makes plans to play with the neighbor boys as well. If Douglas was discouraged from doing these things guild would be the outcome according to Erikson.
  • Middle Childhood: Industry vs. inferiority.

  • Adolescence: Identity vs. identity confusion

  • Early Adulthood: Intimacy vs. isolation

  • Middle Adulthood: Generativity vs. stagnation

  • Late Adulthood: Ego integrity vs. despair