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Erikson's second stage autonomy versus shame and doubt
Margret (age 2) is allowed to pick out her clothes, put on her own shoes, as well as make her own decisions with her snacks. In Erikson's second stage, autonomy versus shame and doubt, allowing the child to make their own decisions will help develop a sense of self (autonomy). Instead of being told she has to put close on already chosen for her and she's not allowed to make her own snack choices, these actions creates shame and doubt in all of her further decisions. -
Erikson's third stage initiative versus guilt
Margret (age 4) likes to play doctor. She likes her mom to play the patient, Margret asks all sorts of questions to make her mom feel better and her mom always tells her she is the best doctor. In Erikson's third stage, initiative versus guilt, allowing Margret to control the narrative of being the doctor and encouraging her she is allowing Margret to become confident in herself and has a sense of purpose (initiative). -
Erikson's fourth stage industry versus inferiority
Margret (age 11) is struggling in reading class. Her mother notices, and says at night they will read some of her books together so she can ask questions on what she is not understanding. In Erikson's fourth stage industry versus inferiority, allowing and encouraging children to do the activities they thrive in allows them to become enthusiastic about learning (industry). Encouraging Margret by reading together, she is fostering her mastery for the reading skill set.