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Trust vs Mistrust
On March 1st, 2000, Brian (B) is born in Alaska. His parents, Lois and Erik, who have been married for 15 years, are overjoyed. Throughout the first year of B's life, Lois stays home and tends to his needs while Erik continues to work, but is still a devoted father. Luckily, the family is well off so B's needs are met. B has a cozy bed, plenty of playtime with both parents, and comfort when he is upset. Because of these positive early experiences with his parents, a sense of trust is built. -
Identity vs Confusion
Brian (B) is now a freshman at UAF. This is the first time he is exposed to true freedom and starts to experiment with alcohol and other party drugs in his first semester because of some peer pressure. After partying every weekend, his grades drop and his energy is depleted. His parents are not happy and encourage him to join clubs at the university and make new friends. B quickly joins a volleyball club, a book club, and an art study group. His behavior and grades both improve. -
Intimacy vs Isolation
Brian (B) is now 23 and just started his grad program in Business Administration. He starts having romantic feelings for his classmate Ryan (R). This causes confusion because this is a newfound feeling for B. After talking to his parents, who are supportive, B tells R about his feelings for him. To B's surprise and relief, these feelings are reciprocated, giving B a sense of excitement to grow into his new identity and at the prospect of love. After 3 years of dating, B and R decide to marry.