Sample Essay – Eight Stages of Human Development
Erickson describes eight stages of human development. The first stage is trust vs. mistrust; the main developmental task is learning how to trust. The second stage is Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt. In this stage, the toddler learns how to control bodily functions and how to remain independent from their parents for longer periods of time.
This stage occurs from around one and a half to age three. Stage three is that of Initiative vs. Guilt, children in this stage are learning how to initiate play with other children, and learning to confront and deal with psychological issues of toddlerhood including the oedipal conflict defined by Freud. Industry vs. Inferiority: The child’s main task is to learn to follow the rules and the value of hard work.
At this age, the child begins to explore the neighborhood and expands their social circle outside of that of family members. (The Learning Place.com, 2009).
As children enter adolescence, they confront identity vs. role confusion. During this stage, adolescents’ main task is to develop a sense of independence from their family and friends.
Stage six is that of Intimacy and Solidarity vs. Isolation, in this stage the young adult is trying to build lifelong relationships, and seeking to create a family on their own.
In stage seven, Generativity vs. Stagnation, the adult’s main task is to work to leave a legacy to the next generation, whether it is one’s values or a fine work of art. The final stage is that of Integrity vs. Despair, in this stage the final developmental task is to learn to accept that one’s death is possible shortly (The Learning Place.com, 2009).
These are just excerpts of essays for you to view. Please click on Order Now for custom essays, research papers, term papers, thesis, dissertations, case studies and book reports.