Erik Erikson

 

Erik Erikson's Eight Stages of Human Development

Trust Vs. Mistrust
This stage is developed between the ages of 0-1 year old. In this time the infant is dependant on the people who care for them, and in order to gain trust of the world around them they must feel warmth and love from the caregiver. If the infant does not gain the positive outcome they will always fall on the opposite side of the spectrum.
Autonomy Vs. Shame and Doubt
This stage is developed between the ages of 1-2 years old. The infant starts to extend themselves away from the caregiver into the world. This extension is key when trying to develop Autonomy.
Initiative Vs. Guilt
This stage is developed between the ages of 3-5 years old. The child begins to care for themselves and their belongings. Self responsibilities are a way which Initiative is developed.
Industry Vs. Inferiority
This stage is developed between the ages of 6-till puberty, during the time they are in elementary school. Children will never be more curious than in this stage. Children want to learn and do new things. It is important to provide many different types of learning activities for children to flourish.
Identity Vs. Identity Confusion
This stage is from the ages of 10-20 during Adolescence. In this time they ask important questions about themselves, where do we fit in, and who we are.
Intimacy Vs. Isolation
This stage is from the ages of 20-30 years old. At this time the individual is looking for a Intimate partner to love and share a life with. This relationship will be responsible for the family aspects that need to be met.
Generativity Vs. Self Absorption
This stage is from the ages of 40-50 years old. At this point in life they will have a primary relationship, and will begin to look outward. What will they want to leave behind for their family and the generations to come. How does their live effect the world, and what is their legacy.
Integrity Vs. Despair
This stage is from the age of 60 and beyond. And is about reflection. Can the individual look back on their life and be proud of the live they have lived. If the individual does not have integrity they will only look back on their life with despair.

The needs of the individual never goes away, if the individual never achieves the positive outcome for life, it will carry on throughout their life, but as an adult they can always go back and rectify what is missing in order to become a happier person.

What is my current, and main priority in life?

At this point I am almost 21 years of age but, my current priority for me right now seems to be conflicted, I want to find someone to be with me, someone I can share my life with, but I don't know who I am. Who I am plays a huge role in who I want to be, and be with.