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In the first stage of Erikson's theory of development trust vs mistrust is a critical aspect. In the book, it states, "Babies need to develop a balance between trust, which lets them form intimate relationships, and mistrust, which enables them to protect themselves." When I was at this stage I was cared for by my parents and a babysitter. I was given proper attention and knew that I was loved, and cared for. I was very close with my mother due to her care for me, so I have a good sense of affection.

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In the second stage, children begin to experience their first taste of independence. They are able to begin making decisions for themselves, but there are some restrictions. In the book, it is stated that shame and doubt are involved in this stage, "to set appropriate limits, and shame and doubt help them recognize the need for those limits." This stage was very impactful in my life especially because I have self-doubt present in my life currently. I think this stems from my parents being overprotective.

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In the third stage, children continue to use their independence to do what they want. They also learn that some things they do will gain approval from others and that others will not get approval. The book states that "if you feel ashamed after getting caught doing something others think is bad, that might keep you from doing it again." I think this sentiment is true in regards to my childhood, especially when it is tied in with my self-doubt. If I did something and was teased for it would tense up and not want to do it anymore, due to the embarrassment that I got from being caught.

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This fourth stage is one that I think reflects me most. This stage is important due to the reflection it has on children, such as their self-esteem. The book states, "there is an opportunity for growth represented by a sense of industry and a complementary risk represented by inferiority." While I did get praise from my parents as a child it is different when you get praised by your parents and when you get praised by others. I did not ever get a lot of praise as a child from others, so I always feel like I don't do as well as others and that their work is better than mine.

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The fifth stage involves adolescents in which they are trying to find out who they are. In the sense of what they want to do, who they want to be, and who they want to be with. For example, the book states that this stage, "lays the groundwork for coping with the challenges of adult life." I struggled with this stage for a little bit growing, especially when all my friends had this plan laid out for their lives, but I did not have a clue about what I wanted to do. Thankfully I have found my plan, but for a time I did not have this.

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At this stage, adolescents tend to flock to others or they pull back from others and stay by themselves. Some adolescents strive to have relationships whether it be with friends or a significant other. Others do not have this luxury due to their own self-isolation or they could be rejected and pushed to isolation. I was in big friend groups, but also felt very withdrawn from the group. It was almost like I was in the group, but was not mentally or emotionally present in the group.

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This stage has a specific draw to younger kids and the community. The book states that a "mature adult is concerned with establishing and guiding the next generation." This stage is important due to its encouragement of being involved in their community to help out. I would volunteer when I could in my community. I would often go to the humane society to help out with the animals.

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The final stage is important to older adults, where they are supposed to come to terms with their lives and reflect back on the important aspects of it. This is where the spread of wisdom is normally from. The book states that the elderly will, "achieve acceptance of own life, allowing acceptance of death, or else despairs over inability to relive life." This is important in maintaining a legacy and spreading knowledge to family or other important people in their lives.