Erikson’s Psychosocial Stages

1. Trust vs. Mistrust

Age Range: Infancy, 0-1 year
Key Challenge: Developing trust for caregivers
Core Question: “Can I trust the people around me?”

2. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

Age Range: Toddlerhood, 1-3 years
Key Challenge: Seeking autonomy and discovery
Core Question: “Can I do things myself, or am I reliant on the help of others?”

3. Initiative vs. Guilt

Age Range: Preschool, 3-6 years
Key Challenge: Developing initiative
Core Question: “Am I good or bad?”

4. Industry vs. Inferiority

Age Range: Elementary School, 6-12 years
Key Challenge: Developing Industriousness
Core Question: “How can I be good?”

5. Identity vs. Role Confusion

Age Range: Adolescence, 12-18 years
Key Challenge: Developing a sense of personal identity
Core Question: “Who am I?”

6. Intimacy vs. Isolation

Age Range: Young Adulthood, 18-40 years
Key Challenge: Developing caring intimate relationships
Core Question: “Will I be loved, or will I be alone?”

7. Generativity vs. Stagnation

Age Range: Middle Adulthood, 40-65 years
Key Challenge: Giving back to the community
Core Question: “How can I contribute to the world?”

8. Integrity vs. Despair

Age Range: Late Adulthood, 65+ years
Key Challenge: Sense of fulfillment
Core Question: “Did I live a meaningful life?”