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Trust vs. Mistrust
Noah, age 1 1/2, is adopted from foster care by a young married couple. The relationship he forms with them is important in his emotional security and development.
In Erikson's first stage, trust vs. mistrust, the crisis Noah faces is whether he learns to trust and feel secure in his relationships based on the care and consistency he has experienced in this early period of life, or become insecure, anxious, and suspicious of his surroundings. -
Identity vs. Role Confusion
Noah, age 14, enters high school and gains an interest in several school clubs, including theater club. Through these activities, he develops close, lasting relationships with peers that have interests similar to his.
In Erikson's fifth stage, identity vs. role confusion, Noah's crisis is becoming more independent and defining their sense of self by exploring interests and values, or experiencing role confusion- not developing a personal identity by not exploring roles they may occupy. -
Generativity vs. Stagnation
Noah, age 50, and his wife experience "empty nesting" when their youngest child moves away for college. He regains his interest in the local theater club, and begins to support and participate in local productions.
In Erikson's 7th stage, generativity vs. stagnation, the crisis Noah experiences is the need to make a lasting difference in his community by nurturing things that will outlast him. If this isn't done, Noah will experience feelings of stagnation and disconnection with his community.
