Which statement best describes Erikson's psychosocial theory?

Which statement best describes Erikson's psychosocial theory?

• A. It proposes eight psychosocial crises across the lifespan
• B. It focuses on cognitive development
• C. It emphasizes only childhood
• D. It denies influence of social relationships

Answer: (A)

Erikson’s theory explains development as eight stages that span from infancy to old age, with each stage presenting a core psychosocial conflict to resolve. How these conflicts are negotiated shapes personality and social functioning across the lifespan. This approach links psychological growth to social relationships and cultural context, not just cognitive change or early childhood alone. For instance, trust vs. mistrust in infancy sets the foundation for security in relationships, while identity vs. role confusion in adolescence shapes a person’s sense of self, and intimacy vs. isolation in early adulthood influences how close connections become. Successfully navigating each stage yields lasting strengths—hope, will, purpose, competence, fidelity, love, care, and wisdom. So the description of eight psychosocial crises across the lifespan best captures Erikson’s theory, rather than views focused only on thinking skills, only on childhood, or denying social influences.

Erikson’s theory explains development as eight stages that span from infancy to old age, with each stage presenting a core psychosocial conflict to resolve. How these conflicts are negotiated shapes personality and social functioning across the lifespan. This approach links psychological growth to social relationships and cultural context, not just cognitive change or early childhood alone. For instance, trust vs. mistrust in infancy sets the foundation for security in relationships, while identity vs. role confusion in adolescence shapes a person’s sense of self, and intimacy vs. isolation in early adulthood influences how close connections become. Successfully navigating each stage yields lasting strengths—hope, will, purpose, competence, fidelity, love, care, and wisdom. So the description of eight psychosocial crises across the lifespan best captures Erikson’s theory, rather than views focused only on thinking skills, only on childhood, or denying social influences.