In Erikson's theory, which stage centers on developing a sense of personal identity during adolescence?

In Erikson's theory, which stage centers on developing a sense of personal identity during adolescence?

• A. Trust vs Mistrust
• B. Identity vs Role Confusion
• C. Autonomy vs Shame
• D. Initiative vs Guilt

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that adolescence is a period for forming a stable sense of self. In Erikson’s theory, this is captured by the stage of Identity vs Role Confusion. When you navigate this stage well, you develop a clear, coherent sense of who you are, including your values, beliefs, goals, and the roles you will assume in adulthood. If this process is not resolved, you may experience role confusion, feeling uncertain about your identity and future directions. This focus during adolescence contrasts with earlier stages like trust vs. mistrust (infancy), autonomy vs. shame (toddler years), and initiative vs. guilt (early school age), which center on developing basic trust, independence, and the ability to initiate actions, rather than establishing a lasting sense of self.

The main idea is that adolescence is a period for forming a stable sense of self. In Erikson’s theory, this is captured by the stage of Identity vs Role Confusion. When you navigate this stage well, you develop a clear, coherent sense of who you are, including your values, beliefs, goals, and the roles you will assume in adulthood. If this process is not resolved, you may experience role confusion, feeling uncertain about your identity and future directions.

This focus during adolescence contrasts with earlier stages like trust vs. mistrust (infancy), autonomy vs. shame (toddler years), and initiative vs. guilt (early school age), which center on developing basic trust, independence, and the ability to initiate actions, rather than establishing a lasting sense of self.