Erikson's Stage of Development

Erikson's Stage of Development

• Stage 1: My mother fed me consistently throughout the day. I was fed at the same times daily. I learned how to blindly trust my mother for providing milk. I learned how to trust my environment in general and developed a secure attachment toward my parents.

• Stage 2: While I was learning how to walk, my parents left me alone to explore how to walk by myself. I would hold onto the edges of the walls to help support me up. My parents encouraged my use of initiative and reassured me when I fell down. I developed the confidence needed to cope with future situations that required choice, control, or independence.

• Stage 3: I had an imaginary friend named Billy at this age. I never felt shame when using my imagination or talking to my imaginary friend. However, I learned that I should not always do what Billy did. For example, if Billy threw away a penny, I knew that I should not do the same. This taught me the ability to accept what was happening without guilt and that there are certain things that are wrong to do.

• Stage 4: Through attending school, I learned the necessity to be productive and do my own work. I learned to make things, use tools, and acquire skills to be a worker and a potential provider. I participated in a wide variety of events throughout the day including academics, group activities and friends. Due to these activities I developed a sense of competence.

• Stage 5: Currently, I decide wh...