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Mr. Guy, the newborn
Mr. Guy is one year old. His mother and father have not been feeding him very well or at regular intervals. They often yell at each other while in his presence. According to Erikson's first stage, Trust vs. Mistrust, Mr. Guy is at risk of developing anxiety, a general mistrust of people, and a fear of not being able to influence events that affect him. Alternatively, if his parents took better care of him, Mr. Guy would develop trust and a sense of trust for his caregivers and hope. -
Mr. Guy, the toddler
As a young boy, Mr. Guy likes to play with cars and trucks. However, his parents have thrown away all of his favorite toys. They insist he play with dolls, particularly Barbie. Erikson's stage of Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt applies here. His parents are not letting him assert himself and be independent or expressive. If they allowed him to play with cars and trucks, then he would feel secure and have the will to express himself. Instead he experiences shame and codependency. -
Mr. Guy, the kindergartner
Mr. Guy just started kindergarten. He has made friends despite the hardships faced in earlier years. His friends' favorite thing to do is play on the trampoline. However, his parents forbade him from doing so out of fear he may be injured. Erikson's third stage, Initiative vs. Guilt, applies here. If allowed to play, Mr. Guy would reach his potential for creativity and initiative. However, he will most likely become a follower and be too shy to engage with others in a confident way. -
Mr. Guy, the middle-schooler
Mr. Guy excels at school, surpassing most of his classmates on tests. He feels valued by society and feels a sense of purpose and pride. His teachers and parents regularly reward him for his efforts. Erikson's fourth stage, Industry vs. Inferiority, applies here. The positive support from his caregivers will help Mr. Guy achieve his potential and be confident in his abilities. Conversely, if he didn't receive such support, Mr. Guy would possibly develop a feeling of inferiority.
