Erikson Timeline by Aubrey Geeve

Trust vs. Mistrust

ageeve — 2024-07-14 16:58:43 UTC

This stage depends on whether the child is well taken care of in infancy, thus learning trust. If the child is let down and does not learn trust this introduces mistrust. I learned trust within my mother because she took care of me, fulfilling every need I had.

Autonomy vs. Doubt

ageeve — 2024-07-14 17:00:51 UTC

This stage determines whether a child can be self fulfilling or if they have doubt within themself. An example commonly used in this stage is potty training. In my experience I was potty trained before I turned two, showing that I did have autonomy.

Initiative vs. Guilt

ageeve — 2024-07-14 17:02:38 UTC

This stage determines whether a child can take control and be a leader, or stand back and be follower do to self doubt. I was very much a leader. I went to a Montessori style school in my early years and took initiative in everything I did.

Industry vs. Inferiority

ageeve — 2024-07-14 17:05:08 UTC

In this stage, children who are encouraged for their good behavior/performance succeed. When parents and teachers don’t give this encouragement it stems to self doubt. I was encouraged constantly in this stage by my parents, teachers, and coaches, leading me to be confident in my performance.

Identity vs. Confusion

ageeve — 2024-07-14 17:07:20 UTC

Identity is how an adolescent may see themself. With a learned sense of identity, the person may understand who they are and what they want in life. In confusion this may be the opposite and the person may still be “finding” themself. I struggle with my identity still currently. I don’t know what my future holds for me and while I have a sense of what I want I am not 100% confident.

Intimacy vs. Isolation

ageeve — 2024-07-14 17:09:14 UTC

This stage is when young adults question whether they want to be joined with relationships and marriage, or if they would spend their life alone. Erikson believe healthy relationships were a good sign in this stage. Since I have not hit this stage yet I am switching to using my mother as an example. My mother chose intimacy and is married.

Generativity vs. Stagnation

ageeve — 2024-07-14 17:11:04 UTC

This stage can be described by adults finding a sense of fulfillment. Whether this be by having children, a good job, or a fitting relationship, the adult should be looking for something to be proud of. My mother has children and job she is proud of, with a loving husband.

Integrity vs. Despair

ageeve — 2024-07-14 17:12:45 UTC

This stage is for older adults looking back on their lives. To be successful in this stage is to feel a sense of fulfillment looking back on all you have done throughout your life. My mother is proud of the life she has created for herself and for her children.