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Erikson Stages Practice Quiz
Challenge your development understanding with our quiz
Study Outcomes
- Identify and describe each stage of Erikson's psychosocial development.
- Analyze the core challenges and tasks associated with each stage.
- Evaluate the impacts of successful and unsuccessful resolution of psychosocial crises.
- Compare and contrast developmental outcomes at different life stages.
- Apply theoretical concepts to real-life scenarios and case studies.
Erikson Stages Development Cheat Sheet
- Eight Stages Overview - Erikson's theory lays out eight exciting chapters of our social and emotional journey, each with its own challenge to conquer. From infancy's first cries to golden‑years reflections, every stage adds a piece to your personal puzzle. Tackling each head‑on helps you understand why you think and feel the way you do as you grow. verywellmind.com
- Trust vs. Mistrust - In infancy (birth to 18 months), babies learn if the world is a safe, snuggly place or a scary one. Reliable caregivers who respond with warmth and care help infants build basic trust, while inconsistency can plant seeds of doubt. This first step lays the foundation for all future relationships. verywellmind.com
- Autonomy vs. Shame & Doubt - Toddlers (18 months to 3 years) start saying "Me do it!" as they explore personal control. Gentle encouragement boosts independence, but harsh criticism can make them hesitate to try new things. This tug‑of‑war shapes their confidence and decision-making skills. verywellmind.com
- Initiative vs. Guilt - From ages 3 to 5, kids love to take the lead - directing playdates and asking tons of "Why?" questions. When grown-ups cheer them on, they blossom into creative go‑getters; when they're shut down, guilt can clip their adventurous spirit. This stage powers their imagination and sense of purpose. verywellmind.com
- Industry vs. Inferiority - School‑age children (6 to 11 years) dive into skills like reading, sports, and friendships to earn applause from teachers and peers. Success builds a sense of competence, while repeated setbacks may spark feelings of inferiority. This phase shapes how hard they'll keep trying when challenges pop up. verywellmind.com
- Identity vs. Role Confusion - Teens (12 to 18 years) embark on an epic quest: Who am I? They experiment with different styles, beliefs, and friend groups to form a unique identity. Navigating this discovery leads to confidence in who they are; getting stuck can cause confusion about where they fit. verywellmind.com
- Intimacy vs. Isolation - In young adulthood, forging close relationships becomes the main mission. Successful connections bring deep intimacy and trust, while fear of rejection can lead to loneliness and isolation. Finding balance here sets the tone for lasting bonds. verywellmind.com
- Generativity vs. Stagnation - During middle adulthood, people seek to give back - through parenting, work projects, or community service. Contributing to the next generation sparks a sense of purpose, whereas feeling stuck can lead to frustration and stagnation. This stage defines your legacy. verywellmind.com
- Integrity vs. Despair - In late adulthood, looking back on life brings pride or regret. Embracing achievements and relationships leads to a sense of fulfillment and wisdom, while lingering "what‑ifs" can result in despair. This reflection caps off the human story. verywellmind.com
- Lifelong Development - Erikson reminds us that growth never stops: each stage builds on the last and influences our personality, relationships, and resilience. Understanding this full‑circle journey helps students appreciate the "why" behind human behavior at every age. verywellmind.com