psychosocial development Flashcards
to remember erikson's theory and the 8 stages
Explain the meaning of psychosocial development.
The formation of social development over a period of time. Erikson’s theory follows an 8-stage sequence, each with a respective crisis to overcome.
What is a psychosocial crisis and why do they occur? Provide an example.
It is a conflict between our internal (personal) needs and the external pressures / demands of society.
An example of this is in Stage 1 (0-1 years), where babies need to learn the balance between trust and mistrust, particularly from their caregivers.
Explain why Erikson believes the resolution of a crisis should include both positive and negative aspects. Provide an example.
In order for our social development to be balanced and healthy, we must have an understanding of both sides.
An example of this is again with Stage 1 (trust vs mistrust). The baby must experience some level of mistrusting behaviour to fully develop an understanding of intimacy and self-preservation.
How often may a particular crisis occur over a lifetime?
Depending on circumstances and the individual development of the person, a crisis can occur a number of times, in varying stages.
Outline one advantage and one limitation of Erikson’s theory.
An advantage of the theory is that it describes how healthy social development can occur. Both positive and negative aspects are necessary for a balanced perspective. It also suggests that a crisis left unresolved in one stage is able to be resolved later; the timelines aren’t concrete.
A limitation is that the theory focuses primarily on males, and is supported primarily by circumstantial evidence; not much scientific backing.
