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Trust versus Mistrust
Trust versus Mistrust is the first stage of Erikson's psychosocial development theory. This begins from infancy to around 18 months old. During this time your views on the world around you start to develop, as well as your personality. In this photo, you can see that the infant has developed trust with her father. She looks comfortable when held and also reveals a feeling of childlike wonder. -
Autonomy versus Shame and Doubt
Autonomy versus Shame and Doubt is the second of Erik Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development. This stage begins at 18 months to 2-3 years old. During this time period, you will start gaining a sense of control. You will be able to start forming your own opinions and show independent characteristics. For example during this stage kids tend to learn how to go potty by themselves, as well as learn what foods they like and don't like. In this photo, she is learning how to potty train. -
Initiative versus Guilt
Initiative versus Guilt is the third stage in Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development. This stage occurs during the ages of 3 to 5. During this time period, the child starts to explore the world around them. The child begins to assert their power through playing and social interaction. For example, concurring tasks and overcoming challenges. In this photo, she is exploring the playground and climbing over obsticles. -
Industry versus Inferiority
Industry versus Inferiority is the fourth stage in Erikson's theory of psychosocial development. This stage occurs between the ages of 6 to 11. During this stage social interaction is key. For example, kids who display good grades in school get a sense of praise from their parents which helps them with their confidence. Whereas kids who don't get good grades feel inferior to others. This photo displays the support system she has. She is encouraged to continue to strive to achieve her goals. -
Identity versus Role Confusion
Identity versus Role Confusion is the fifth stage in psychologist Erikson's theory of psychosocial development. This stage happens during the ages of 12 to 18. During this stage, you are confused about your own identity. Through exploration and social interactions, you eventually feel a sense of independence and direction. For example, the people around you shape your identity. In this photo, she discovers that she enjoys hiking and being outside. Her explorations take her to different places. -
Intimacy versus Isolation
Intimacy versus Isolation is the sixth stage of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development. This stage starts at ages 19 to 40. During this time period, you create intimate relationships. For example, having close friends or a partner is intimate. Whereas not having anyone to support you can feel lonely. In this picture, she finds the person that she has been looking for. Someone who enjoys the same things she does as well as cares for her. She did not expect to end up with someone so perfect. -
Generativity versus Stagnation
Generativity versus Stagnation is the seventh stage of Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development. This stage occurs during the ages of 40 to 65. During this stage, most people think about what they have contributed to the world. For example, people during this period will make commitments to others, form connections with their families, and even mentor younger generations. Whereas others might decide to not get involved with others. In this photo, she helps volunteer at a food drive. -
Integrity versus Despair
Integrity versus Despair is the eighth stage of Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development. This begins from age 65 till death. This is when people evaluate their life. For example, one can look back at what they have accomplished and feel like they have done their best to contribute. On the other hand, people can also look back and feel regret for what they haven't done. In this photo, she evaluates her life. She is happy with the paths she has taken and the people she has met on the way.