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Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt
Jude was two years old when his mom was trying to teach him to use the "potty". He would cry when he was made to "try" and he struggled with constipation which only compounded his initial dislike for the toilet. Jude's mom never called him naughty or spanked him for disobeying when he wouldn't go, instead she used stories and books during potty time to slowly acclimate him into the regular habit of using the potty until he became comfortable and even excited to go on his own. -
Industry vs. Inferiority
Nikolai was 9 years old and was interested in dramatic performance. At his school most of the boys were interested in sports and had already chosen to be on the hockey, soccer, or football team. He was discouraged away from his natural preference and told to chose something more "boyish" to participate in during the school year. This is an example of Erikson's 4th stage where inadequacy to meet social demands affects a child's sense of competency. -
Intimacy vs. Isolation
Maria was 26 and had dated many people but she constantly ended relationships due to a fear of being so close to any one person. She had many friends but felt lonely in the area of her life that lacked the partnership she desired. Her sadness was growing each year and she wondered if she would ever find someone with whom she could share her life so closely. In Erikson's 6th stage he talks about the virtue of love being developed through learning to be intimate.