-
Susan becomes potty-trained
Susan (age 3) learns that she can control her bladder through training from her mother and father and no longer needs to wear diapers. In Erickson's 2nd stage, Autonomy vs Shame/Doubt, Susan gains some independence and begins learning to make her own decisions. In doing so, she avoids feelings of low self-esteem and shame. -
Susan discovers her identity
Susan (age 17) discovers through school and personal exploration that she loves mathematics and decides to pursue a career in accounting. In Erickson's 5th stage, Identity vs Role Confusion, Susan explores who she is, what her values are, and what her identity will be. In deciding to pursue this career, she avoided a weak sense of self and instead became confident in herself and her abilities. -
Raising her children
Susan (age 41) raises her twin sons, teaching them to be contributing members of society and to think critically about ways to better the world. Susan finds a sense of accomplishment in her contribution to the future generations. In Erickson's 7th stage, Generativity vs Stagnation, she avoided feelings of stagnation by contributing to the next generation and raising children to be positive influences.
