Chapter 8- Erik Erikson Flashcards
What was Erikson’s view of the ego?
Erikson believed that the ego is the center of our personality. It’s a person’s ability to unify experiences and actions in an adaptive manner
What are the three aspects of the ego?
The body ego- the way of seeing our physical self as different from others
The ego ideal- The image we have of ourselves in comparison with an established ideal
The ego identity- The image we have of ourselves in the variety of social roles we play
How does society influence the ego?
Erikson believed that society is what largely shapes the ego.
What is “pseudospecies”
The illusion of a particular society that it was chosen to be the human species
What is an interaction of opposites?
A conflict between a syntonic element and a dystonic element. (for example trust vs mistrust)
What is basic strength?
An ego quality/strength produced by the conflict between the dystonic and syntonic elements
(ex. trust vs mistrust produces hope)
How does a core pathology occur?
When there is too little basic strength in any given stage.
ex. not enough hope will result in the opposite, withdrawal
Define an identity crisis
A turning point, a crucial period of increased vulnerability and heightened potential
Erikson identified with what nation?
Denmark
What is the most important aspect of the ego?
ego identity
The ego develops where?
Within a social structure
Healthy development rests on what?
A conflict between syntonic and dystonic tendencies
Who did Erikson receive training from?
Anna Freud
Who did Erikson spend his life trying to learn the name of?
His bio father
What is erikson’s epigenetic principle?
The ego follows a step-by-step growth process through stages
