Question

   1.How would you distinguish the lifespan into the eight distinct stages? come up with 8 stages life span

Answer 1

Dr Erk Erikson developed a theory of psychological development. In contrast to other theories, he has attempted to explain the psychological development across the entire lifespan of an individual.

According to this theory, conflict is encountered at each stage of the lifespan that in turn affects development. When the conflict is resolved, the individual develops the psychological quality that is linked to the particular stage of development.

Stage 1: Trust vs Mistrust:

This stage is typical in the first year of the life of a child when the infant is completely dependant on the caregivers. If the needs of the infant are met by the caregivers in a caring and consistent manner, the infant learns to trust people and the world. Else, the infant may develop a mistrust of the world and the people around him/her.

Stage 2: Autonomy vs Shame And Doubt:

This stage is encountered when the individual is a toddler. In this period of development, the child develops a sense of personal control that is of considerable importance. Learning how to use a toilet, choosing toys and clothes are accepted ways to generate independence. The amount of autonomy that is given versus the desire of the caregivers to control the behaviour of the child will determine the degree of autonomy exhibited.

Stage 3: Initiative vs Guilt:

This stage typically occurs in the ages of three to five years. Children who are encouraged to engage in play that is self-directednot so encouraged and are encouraged to take initiative will learn to take initiative. Children who are not so encouraged are less likely to take initiative and more likely to develop a sense of guilt if they do take initiative.

Stage 4: Industry vs Inferiority:

This stage typically occurs in the ages of six to eleven, commonly referred to as middle childhood. During this stage, children have to indulge in academic activities at school and there is also significant interaction with friends. It is in this stage that the child learns to develop a sense of pride in achievements as well as a sense of accomplishment. Praise helps the child develop a sense of competence whereas the child who is not so praised and/or is discouraged or criticized may develop a sense of inferiority.

Stage 5: Identity vs Confusion:

This stage typically occurs in adolescence, commonly known as the teenage years. This stage is critical for the formation of personal identity. The teenager will attempt different behaviors, identities, and roles. This stage is particularly crucial in the formation of a personal sense of identity. Therefore, this stage has a strong effect on the rest of the life of an individual. The adolescent who is able to find a sense of identity will be independent and secure whereas the adolescent who is confused may be insecure and may not be certain about his/her situation or place in the world.

Stage 6: Intimacy vs Isolation:

This stage typically occurs between the ages of nineteen to forty years. In this period of life, dating, intimate love, marriage, friendship and family are the driving motivators. An individual who is able to form such loving bonds is more secure and stable whereas the individual who is no able to form these bonds at all or in an appropriate manner or desired quantity feels isolation.

Stage 7: Generativity vs Stagnation:

This stage typically occurs in middle adulthood, commonly known as the middle-age years. The need to nurture and create is strong in the individual and usually lasts throughout the lifespan of the individual. Working and professional achievements, raising a family in a supportive environment and contributing to the community are important to the individual in this stage and they help develop a sense of purpose in the individual. The individual who finds a way to accomplish this develops a sense of identity and purpose whereas the individual who does not find a way to achieve these or at least some part fulfillment will develop a sense of stagnation and feel useless and disconnected.

Stage 8: Integrity vs Despair:

This stage typically occurs after the age of sixty-five years and generally lasts until the death of the individual. In this phase, the individual starts analyzing life and asks questions such as "did I live a life that was meaningful?" "did my life have a purpose?" etc. The individual who looks back at life with satisfaction of a life well-lived will develop a sense of peace, satisfaction, and even wisdom. In case the individual does not have this sense of peace and satisfaction, the individual may experience a sense of despair, sadness, regret, and bitterness.