# data[].attributes.body
During the first stage of Basic Trust vs. Mistrust, infants will learn to trust or mistrust their guardian(s). This is solely based on if their needs are constantly being met. During the first year of life, infants strictly rely on their guardians to give them comfort, food, and security. When these are met on a regular basis, they learn to trust. However, if these needs are neglected they tend to develop anxiety and mistrust. "People need to trust the world and the people in it, but they also need to learn some mistrust to protect themselves from danger." (Martorell, pg 13) Although, my mom worked while I was an infant she still managed to meet my needs and gain my trust.

# data[].attributes.body
Erikson's second stage of psychosocial development is Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt, which starts at 18 months and usually lasts until 3 years old. While in this stage children are developing a sense of independence. They'll begin to show interest in doing things themselves. This includes feeding themselves and wanting to explore their surroundings. When parents encourage this it allows the child to develop self-confidence and autonomy. If the parent doesn't offer encouragement during this stage the child may doubt their abilities. "If you feel that others have your back, you are likely to try new things and thus develop new skills." (Martorell, pg. 14) Around this time, my mother started to let me make choices such as picking out cartoons I wanted to watch or books I wanted her to read before bedtime.

# data[].attributes.body
During this stage which is considered the preschool years, the child is rapidly developing. They're learning and using many newly developed skills such as language and interacting with others. This is a critical time because children are eager to explore without feeling overwhelmed. Although I never attended preschool I still managed to learn and take initiative by participating in play with other children my age. Two of my favorite things to do at this age were to gather sheets and blankets to build forts and pretend to cook. "Improvements in fine motor skills allow children to take more responsibility for such tasks as dressing themselves, tying their shoelaces, and pouring food into a bowl." (Martorell, pg. 146) My mother also started to allow me to pour my own cereal to help me grasp the concept.

# data[].attributes.body
By this stage, children are at the start of elementary school. During this time they develop a sense of competence and industry. This also lays the foundation to build self-esteem. "If children are unable to obtain the praise of others or lack motivation and self-esteem, they may develop a feeling of low self-worth and thus develop a sense of inferiority." (Martorell, pg. 276) Growing up I was very involved in student council and cheerleading. These activities always pushed me to work hard and set goals for myself. My mom always encouraged me during this time and because of that I was able to master industry by working hard to achieve my goals.

# data[].attributes.headline
Stage 5: Identity Vs. Identity Confusion

# data[].attributes.subject
Stage 5: Identity Vs. Identity Confusion

# data[].attributes.body
During the adolescence stage, the child is focusing and developing a sense of identity and uniquely figuring out who they are. The child may also begin to experiment with different ideas of themselves. "Identity forms as young people resolve three major issues: the choice of an occupation, the adoption of values to live by, and the development of a satisfying sexual identity." (Martorell, pg. 264. ) This stage in my life was very awkward for me. I was growing into myself learning my morals, values, likes, and dislikes, and outgrowing my friends. I joined the band and regained my love for music and fell in love with majorette dance. I met new like-minded people who shared many of the same interests as myself and my first boyfriend. This helped me learn who I was as a person and helped me find my colorful place in the world.

# data[].attributes.body
The next stage takes place in young adulthood and the person may begin to seek committed relationships. "Person seeks to make commitments to others or may suffer from isolation and self-absorption." (pg. 34) I am now 26 years old. I'm a mother to an amazing little boy who I adore. I've been in a committed relationship with my high school sweetheart for the past 9 years. He's kind, loving, understanding, and supportive. I still manage to maintain healthy relationships with my family and friends.

# data[].attributes.body
This next stage takes place in middle adulthood. During this time adults are focused on making a positive impact on their community and raising their family. A person who successfully navigates this develops generativity from their contributions. Someone who doesn't will start to feel unfulfilled and stagnant. This allows us to prepare the next generation to take on the world. As a mature adult "you're concerned with establishing and guiding the next generation or else feels personal improvement." (Martorell, pg. 13) I believe I'm well on my way to this stage of feeling generativity. I'm currently raising my son and encouraging him everyday. I'm educating and preparing the next generation through mentoring, volunteering and just being their for all of the club members at my job. I won't become stagnant because of the fulfillment I already get from working within my community now.

# data[].attributes.body
This is the last stage that takes place in late adulthood. This stage focuses on reflecting and acceptance of ones life. The person will have a sense of satisfaction and integrity due to their life experiences. If they struggle to find purpose in their lifetime they'll feel a sense of despair and regret. As an "elderly person achieves acceptance of own life, allowing acceptance of death, or despairs, over inability to relive life. (Martorell, pg. 13) When this stage comes I will have reached my integrity and full of satisfaction over the life I've lived. The ride may have been long but the journey will have taught me many valuable lessons that I can contribute to someone else. The degree that I worked hard for will be framed and all of my goals will be accomplished. I will be able to say that I didn't live with any regrets.

# data[].attributes.body
Martorell, G. (2023). Child, 3rd edition. McGraw Hill