Erikson’s 8 Stages of Psychosocial Development Explained

Natural growth and development will happen in stages – we develop different parts of ourselves at each stage of our lives, whether it be forming a sense of our own identity, or learning how to create intimate relationships with others.

This is the basis of Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development, which covers the different phases of development that a person will experience as they develop and age. This theory is frequently used by psychologists to identify the core needs of an individual at a specific point in their life and the part that it plays in their social environment.

What are the 8 stages of psychosocial development?

According to Erikson’s theory, there are eight main stages of psychosocial development:

Stage 1: Trust vs. Mistrust
Stage 2: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt
Stage 3: Initiative vs. Guilt
Stage 4: Industry vs. Inferiority
Stage 5: Identity vs. Confusion
Stage 6: Intimacy vs. Isolation
Stage 7: Generativity vs. Stagnation
Stage 8: Integrity vs. Despair

Each stage corresponds to a specific stage of life as an indication of the most prominent need that a person has at that stage. While the theory offers a generalised framework, individual development may vary based on personal experiences, cultural influences, and environmental factors.

Stage 1: Trust vs. Mistrust (0 – 2 years old)

The first stage of Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development is from birth up to the age of two years old.

At this stage, Erikson postulates that the primary psychological need for babies is to develop trust with their parents or caretakers. Infants are fully dependent on their caretakers for food, shelter, warmth, and love. When caregivers consistently provide these needs, they help babies feel safe and secure, and develop a sense of trust that will form the foundation of future development. Conversely, inconsistent or neglectful caregiving may lead to feelings of mistrust, making the infant perceive the world as unpredictable or unsafe.

Stage 2: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (18 months – 3 years old)

Stage 2 will take place between the ages of 18 months to three years old, as infants develop into toddlers.

During this stage, toddlers will begin to attempt independence across simple tasks like putting on shoes, washing their hands, or getting dressed. This desire for independence is what leads to the initial development of autonomy. Instead of being overprotective or critical, parents are encouraged to provide opportunities for their toddlers to take initiative, make their own decisions and complete tasks with guidance. If toddlers are not given sufficient room to develop autonomy, it can impact confidence and lead to shame and doubt in future years.

When parents strike a balance between encouraging autonomy and offering appropriate support, they help toddlers build a foundation for self-confidence and decision-making in the future.

Stage 3: Initiative vs. Guilt (3 – 5 years old)

Stage 3 occurs during preschool years; between three to five years old).

Children become markedly more active and aware of themselves at this stage and will begin asserting themselves in social interactions with their peers. This usually happens during play and learning sessions — children experiment with planning and decision-making and begin asking for the things they want, whether it’s to borrow a toy or to join another child in a play session. Children who are given this space to explore and exercise their initiative will gain greater confidence in their ability to do so. Meanwhile, those who are dismissed or overly restricted may develop feelings of guilt, believing their actions or desires are wrong.

When children have a safe and supportive environment for exploration, they are able to establish a balance between initiative and understanding boundaries, which supports healthy social and emotional development.

Stage 4: Industry vs. Inferiority (5 – 12 years old)

Stage 4 takes place during the early school years, as children begin their first foray into formal education.

This stage revolves around the development of competency in areas like academics, social interactions, artistic talents, athletic abilities and problem-solving skills. Children are rapidly exposed to learning in this phase and are encouraged to display their proficiency through activities, tests and examinations.

A key motivator that drives children at this age to perform is gaining approval and recognition from teachers, parents, and peers. If they are successful in doing so, children learn the value of being industrious, which can carry into all aspects of their lives, encouraging them to continue striving for success. Conversely, children who perform poorly or are placed under unrealistic expectations often develop a sense of inferiority that can undermine self-esteem and discourage future progress.

Stage 5: Identity vs. Confusion (12 – 18 years old)

Stage 5 involves the development of self-identity during the teenage years (12 to 18 years old).

This stage is marked by significant physical, mental, and emotional changes triggered by puberty. Teens try to piece their own identity together from their beliefs, goals, personal values and social roles.

Teenagers who are able to define their personal goals, values and sense of self during this stage develop a strong sense of identity that will continue to evolve as they grow and encounter more experiences. However, those who do not have the right support from their caregivers or peers will usually end up experiencing confusion regarding who they are as an individuals, who they want to be, and what their future may be like.

Positive social interactions and a safe environment for self-expression are crucial for helping teens navigate this stage.

Stage 6: Intimacy vs. Isolation (18 – 40 years old)

Stage 6 is the most expansive period of development — from young adulthood (18 years) to early middle adulthood (40 years) –where the primary developmental task is forming meaningful personal relationships.

Challenges during this stage involve forging and maintaining new relationships with others outside of one’s immediate family. This includes not only romantic relationships but also platonic relationships with close friends or deep emotional bonds with others. The ability to love and trust others is one of the biggest milestones in this stage, as being able to do so usually results in lasting and fulfilling relationships.

Individuals who are unable to form intimate connections—whether due to fear of vulnerability, rejection, or external circumstances— can develop an apprehension of intimacy and experience loneliness and isolation.

An individual who has both the ability to share themselves with others while maintaining a strong sense of individuality will be able to form the foundation for healthy, enduring relationships throughout their life.

Stage 7: Generativity vs. Stagnation (40 – 65 years old)

Stage 7 of an individual’s psychosocial development happens during the ages of 40 to 65 years old, centring on the need to contribute meaningfully to society and future generations.

At this stage, individuals strive to achieve a sense of generativity and leave a lasting legacy by making an impact on their families, workplaces or communities Being productive at work, raising children, mentoring younger generations, achieving their goals, or engaging in community activities are some examples of how mature individuals will try to develop themselves at this stage.

Individuals who successfully develop a sense of generativity will take satisfaction in knowing that they have made an impact in different aspects of their lives and derive meaning from their contributions. Conversely, some individuals who struggle to find purpose or feel disconnected from their roles may experience a sense of stagnation, and feel unproductive and unfulfilled as a result. Stagnation often stems from unresolved conflicts or limited opportunities to engage meaningfully with others.

When individuals are able to engage in active reflection, set new goals, and find ways to connect with and contribute to others, they are able to foster a sense of purpose and continuity which will help them thrive at this stage.

Stage 8: Integrity vs. Despair (65 years old onwards)

The last stage of psychosocial development occurs from the age of 65 onwards, and centres on reflecting on one’s life and assessing its overall meaning and impact

Individuals at this stage engage in a reflection of their lives and everything they have achieved. This assessment can either lead to a genuine feeling of personal integrity and pride for those who feel happy with the way they have lived, or feelings of regret for those who are dissatisfied with their life.

Integrity brings a sense of wholeness, fulfilment, and wisdom, allowing individuals to face the end of life with peace and acceptance. Despair can manifest as feelings of bitterness, fear of death, or a sense that their life has been wasted.

Unlike the previous stages, however, Erikson highlights that this stage is fluid – individuals at this final stage can switch between both feelings of satisfaction and regret as they continue to reflect on their experiences.

Achieving a sense of integrity requires individuals to find meaning and value in their lives as a whole, even in the face of imperfections.

Applying Erikson’s theory for personal development

Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development offers valuable insights into the stages of human growth and the challenges throughout our lives. Each stage, from building trust as infants to reflecting on our legacy in later years, shapes our relationships, sense of self and overall well-being. This theory helps us gain insights into our own lives and those around us, enabling us to navigate relationships and responsibilities with greater understanding and purpose.