One aspect of my infancy that helped me to develop basic trust is that I developed a deep and secure attachment style to both my mother and my father. According to the "Child" textbook, attachment is the "Reciprocal, enduring tie between two people-especially between infant and caregiver-each of whom contributes to the quality of the relationship" (Martorell 150). One particular instance that demonstrates this is that as an infant, I would always fall asleep on my father's chest when sports were on.

One way that I demonstrated autonomy during my toddler years is that I was stubborn, and made my own wishes clear. In the "Child" textbook, it states that this stage of development is characterized by the persistent negativism and defiance of the "terrible twos" (Martorell 156). One particular instance of myself demonstrating this sense of autonomy is that when I didn't like food, I would push my plate away from me and say, "I'm full. . ." in a sing-song voice.

According to Martorell, this stage describes how children "Balance the urge to pursue goals with reservations about doing so" (Martorell 210). One way that I demonstrated this is that I was encouraged to and eager to read at an early age. I would try to pick out my own books when I was in pre-school, and was never told, "That book is too hard for you." This helped me to take initiative in learning and not feel guilty when I wasn't able to read the advanced books.

Martorell describes how children achieve industry, stating, "If the stage is fully resolved, children develop a view of themselves as being able to master skills and complete tasks" (Martorell 275). One particular instance of me developing industry over inferiority is in the fourth grade, when my talent for writing was first recognized. My teacher asked to use my writing assignment as a future example of a perfect demonstration of the writing prompt. This boosted my confidence and helped me realize that my talents were true.

Throughout high school, I struggled with finding my sexual orientation and gender identity. Despite this, I developed a concrete identity. One event that helped me to overcome this stage of development was when I moved to Fort Wayne. The friends that I made accepted me for who I was and helped me to have a sense of belonging. Martorell describes this loyalty and belonging as one way that this stage's crisis is resolved (Martorell 336).

I am currently at the beginning of this stage. One of my goals to achieve intimacy and avoid isolation is to socialize with my peers and close friends more frequently, as Martorell states in the "Child" textbook, "greater intimacy, loyalty, and sharing with friends mark a transition towards adultlike friendships" (Martorell 351). Another way that I will develop intimacy over isolation is through maintaining healthy communication in my current romantic relationship with my partner. This will help me to build my interpersonal and communication skills, while also providing a sense of security and happiness.

I have not yet reached this stage of development, yet I believe that I will develop generativity over stagnation. One way that I will ensure that I develop generativity is to continue to pursue personal hobbies and goals outside of my professional career. This will help me maintain my overall motivation and avoid burnout.

I have not yet reached this stage, as I have just entered the sixth stage. I believe that I will reach integrity in the final stage if I am able to make efficient life goals and avoid regrets.