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Infancy (Trust vs. Mistrust)
Date: 0-18 months As a newborn, the baby experiences consistent care from their mother, who regularly feeds, changes, and comforts them, helping them feel safe and secure in the world. In the Trust vs. Mistrust stage, infants learn to trust or mistrust the world around them based on the consistency of care they receive. Positive caregiving fosters trust, while neglect can lead to feelings of insecurity and fear. -
Adolescence (Identity vs. Role Confusion)
Date: 12-18 years At 16, the adolescent begins to explore different hobbies and social groups, trying to figure out who they are. This is sparked by their decision to join a school drama club, which helps them discover new aspects of their identity. Adolescents struggle to form a clear sense of identity. They try to reconcile different aspects of their self-concept. A successful resolution leads to a strong sense of self, while failure may cause role confusion and uncertainty about the future. -
Middle Adulthood (Generativity vs. Stagnation)
At 45, the adult becomes a mentor at work, guiding younger employees and volunteering in the community. This desire to contribute positively to future generations brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment. In middle adulthood, individuals strive to contribute to society and future generations, either through work, family, or community involvement. Successful resolution fosters generativity, while stagnation occurs when individuals feel unproductive or disconnected.