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In the first stage of Erikson's theory, infants learn to trust their caregivers and the world based on whether or not their basic needs—such as food and comfort—are met. When these needs are consistently satisfied, infants develop a sense of trust; otherwise, mistrust can develop. When I was born, the first person I knew I could trust was my mom. She was always holding me and always comforting me.

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Stage 2: Autonomy vs Shame and Doubt (1-3 years)

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Stage 2: Autonomy vs Shame and Doubt (1-3 years)

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During this phase, toddlers start to assert their independence by making choices and exercising will. Success leads to a sense of autonomy, while failure results in feelings of shame and doubt. Like when I was a toddler, I know when I would make a mistake that I would get embarrassed because I didn't know what I was doing was wrong. And the way my dad would go about me making these mistakes like yelling or over punishing, would make me feel shame as well.

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Stage 3: Initiative vs Guilt (3-5 years)

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Stage 3: Initiative vs Guilt (3-5 years)

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In this stage, children begin to initiate activities, make plans, and take on responsibilities. Healthy development results in a sense of initiative, whereas failure can lead to feelings of guilt over self-initiated tasks or goals. This is the age where I started dance classes. I had to be responsible in learning my dances in order to do them on stage without help and for a trophy. I remember feeling guilty when I wouldn't win gold or platinum. It was a feeling like I was letting the entire dance studio down during these competitions.

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Stage 4: Industry vs Inferiority (5-12 years)

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Stage 4: Industry vs Inferiority (5-12 years)

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This stage is characterized by the development of competence and skills in various areas. Children learn the pleasure of applying themselves to tasks, or they feel inferior if they fail to measure up to expectations. This is where I learned that I always had to be better. Always had to do my best. Or I always felt like I had to or I was a big disappointment to those who expected way too much of a child.

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Stage 5: Identity vs Role Confusion (12-18 years)

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Stage 5: Identity vs Role Confusion (12-18 years)

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Adolescents search for a sense of self and personal identity, through an intense exploration of personal values, beliefs, and goals. Success leads to an ability to stay true to oneself, while failure results in role confusion and a weak sense of self. As someone who grew up in a church, I ended up finding myself growing away from it. I didn't believe what I had been taught all the years prior. I got my first boyfriend and found out that I like men and I am straight. I was still in competitions and at this age I was beginning to wonder, is this really something I really want to do?

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Stage 6: Intimacy vs Isolation (18-40 years)

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Stage 6: Intimacy vs Isolation (18-40 years)

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Young adults explore intimate relationships and learn the importance of commitment, safety, and care within a relationship. Success leads to strong relationships, while failure results in loneliness and isolation. This would be the current stage of my life. I am 26 and still learning. I have been married for almost 2 years and still going strong with the commitment. I am protective and ensure the safety of both my husband and child. They will always come before me and I will always put their needs first.

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Stage 7: Generativity vs Stagnation (40-65 years)

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Stage 7: Generativity vs Stagnation (40-65 years)

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During middle adulthood, individuals focus on supporting the next generation and contributing to society. Success in this stage leads to feelings of usefulness and accomplishment, while failure results in shallow involvement in the world. I haven't experienced this stage yet but what I understand is this is the midlife crisis stage. My kids will be grown. Hopefully, I'll still be deeply in love with my husband, in a good spot with my career and soon retirement. These are goals I have set for myself in this stage. I don't want the feeling of regret of what I could have done with my life.

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Stage 8: Ego Integrity vs Despair (65 years and older)

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Stage 8: Ego Integrity vs Despair (65 years and older)

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In the final stage of Erikson's psychosocial development, individuals reflect on their lives and either come to terms with their life choices, leading to a sense of integrity, or experience despair over goals not achieved and opportunities missed. i want to be enjoying retirement. Maybe some grandkids. Sitting on a porch swing watching the sunrise with my loving husband next to me. Reminiscing over how good our life has been. I want the positives to come out on top.

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Martorell, G. (2023). Child, 3rd edition. McGraw Hill