Introduction
Erikson is one of the most significant contributors to human development through his theory of psychosocial development. The theory is established on eight stages through which a child develops their personality from infancy to adulthood. Each stage is characterized by different psychological needs and crises that can adversely or positively affect personality development.
A child attains psychological healthiness by manifesting positive emotional, social, and cognitive development based on good coping abilities and has a strong sense of self-esteem and resilience. Failure to complete any stages successfully impacts the capacity to develop a healthy personality and sense of self. The environment in which a child grows, including family dynamics, helps to improve psychological development. A child gets exposed to role models, emotional and moral support, stability, and a general support system needed for their psychological health.
Developmental Stages According to Erikson
Stage 1: Trust vs. Mistrust
It is the foundational stage in Erikson’s theory when an infant finds themselves in an uncertain world. The stage covers the period from birth to about 18 months, during which a child depends on the primary caregiver for care (Maree, 2021). Trust becomes a necessary component of the interaction, which has to be established by the caregiver to ensure that the child shows dependence on them.
If a child successfully develops trust, they will feel safe and secure in the world. This can be realized through showing affection; for instance, when a child cries, it is a sign that they need some needs met. Maree (2021) indicates that it is essential for the caregiver to provide comfort to the young child by holding them closely and securely. Trust can also be created through bathing, feeding, and soothing the child as they help meet the need for nourishment.
In addition, the child needs to feel safe and secure, both physically and emotionally. A safe environment can be created by enhancing attachment with the child, setting the foundation for healthy future relationships and emotional well-being. In research by Maree (2021), the caregiver should provide consistent and sensitive care to enable the child to develop a secure attachment. Adjusting to the child’s emotions and validating their feelings helps them develop a secure emotional foundation.
Stage 2: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt
Autonomy versus shame and doubt marks the second stage of Erikson’s theory. It focuses more on enabling the child to develop a sense of personal control over physical skills and independence. It runs from the age of 18 months up until about three years (Maree, 2021). In this stage, the caregiver needs to foster independence and help the child to build self-esteem. This can be realized by providing a safe and exciting environment for the toddler to explore. The caregiver should allow the child to touch, play, and interact with different objects.
Recognizing and praising the child’s efforts and accomplishments is essential, however small they may seem. Erikson indicates that the caregiver should set appropriate expectations for the toddler’s developmental stage. Maree (2021) suggests that offering comfort and reassurance when the child faces challenges or difficult emotions helps to boost self-esteem. The caregiver must avoid brutal punishment, and disciplining the child should focus on redirection and gentle guidance rather than punitive measures.
The second stage is also characterized by “terrible twos,” when the child may exhibit tantrums as they struggle to show independence and autonomy. The child needs support to create a sense of control through different approaches. The first is to stay calm and patient, as tantrums can be challenging while showing calmness and being composed (Maree, 2021). If the child shows signs of brewing tantrums, it is vital to redirect the child’s attention to another activity or object. Tantrums should be approached with empathy, understanding, and positive reinforcement.
Stage 3: Initiative vs. Guilt
The third stage of Erikson’s psychosocial development begins when the child strives to assert themselves and fulfill more obligations. It occurs during early childhood, between three to five years (Maree, 2021). During that time, the child seeks to become more independent and develops a sense of initiative and a longing to explore the world around them. The caregiver must ensure that the child grows socially integrated and develops a positive self-image and self-confidence.
The caregiver can attain the required goals by encouraging the child to explore their environment through play and imagination. The child should also be allowed to become socially active by interacting with siblings, family members, and peers through playdates. Maree (2021) indicates that the caregiver should become a good model for the child to learn positive behavior and develop confidence, given that the child will mainly learn through observation. Demonstrating self-assurance, problem-solving skills, and the ability to handle setbacks effectively is vital.
During this stage, the basic parenting style that is highly desirable is being authoritative. The caregiver should show firmness in their actions while at the same time being warm, responsive, and supportive. Maree (2021) states that even as appropriate boundaries and expectations must be created and maintained, the caregiver must remain open and be honest when communicating with the child. Positive reinforcement can be applied to embrace and praise the child’s efforts and achievements.
Stage 4: Industry vs. Inferiority
Stage four occurs when the child enters middle childhood, where they become enthusiastic to learn new skills and take on new challenges. It occurs between the ages of five and 12, and various approaches must be applied to ensure that the child develops a sense of pride in their accomplishments (Maree, 2021). The caregiver should affirm that the child can put their best effort into what matters and reassure them that setbacks and failures are a natural part of learning and growing.
Furthermore, the caregiver should offer challenges and activities to the child that are aligned with their interests and abilities. If they succeed, the child will become more confident apart from becoming competent and reinforcing a positive self-image. Aside from schooling, these activities can be undertaken after school to contribute toward the child’s development. Examples include participating in organized sports like soccer, basketball, or swimming (Maree, 2021). The child can participate in creative works through art activities, such as drawing, painting, and martial arts classes, like karate or taekwondo, which can help instill self-control, discipline, and self-defense and promote physical fitness.
Children are exposed to numerous digital gadgets, including phones, computers, and television, in the current digital age. The screen time allowed to interact with the devices should be set to a maximum of 1 to 2 hours (Maree, 2021). Ensuring they do not interfere with physical activity, adequate sleep, or face-to-face social interactions is vital. The children will also be exposed to bullying and cyberbullying, which must be appropriately handled. The child should be exposed to open communication and be equipped with coping strategies, such as internet safety and responsible online behavior.
Conclusion
In summary, it is crucial to understand Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development, which provides a mechanism for supporting healthy child development. Erikson outlines specific approaches at each stage of development that can enable caregivers to provide appropriate support and guidance based on the child’s needs. Research can be undertaken on the theory to understand the factors that influence psychosocial development at different stages. Their implication in practice involves supporting timely intervention and support for children facing challenges.
Reference
Maree, J. G. (2021). The psychosocial development theory of Erik Erikson: Critical overview. Early Child Development and Care, 191(7-8), 1107–1121. Web.