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Musical Interests
Little Debbie H. has started to show an interest in music and the piano. Her parents have been supportive and have signed her up for piano lessons. In Erikson's fourth stage, industry vs. inferiority, the crisis occurs between being allowed to recognize and pursue one's own talens and interests versus being discouraged in those pursuits. Discouragement or lack of support can lead to low self-esteem or lethargy. -
Marriage
Debbie (age 23) and Tim (age 22) make the commitment of matrimony. In Erikson's sixth stage, intamacy vs. isolation, long-term commitments are formed. Compromise is a necessary requirement for these intamate relationships to work and if one cannot make the necessary requirements or sacrifices due to personal issues, isolation occurs and angst and depression are often side effects. -
Middle Age
Debbie has a satisfying career as a denal hygenist. She has raised four children who are all good students and are heading into successful professions. In Erikson's seventh stage, generativity vs. stagnation, the crisis occurs between contributing to society (either through a successful career or rearing of children, who in turn will make posative contributions) or not contributing to society. People who don't contribute (due to joblessness or unsatisfactory careers) will feel dissatisfied. -
Old Age
Debbie, in the last years of her life, has retired and travels to visit her children with her husband. In Erikson's eighth stage, ego integrity vs. despair, the crisis occurs with whether or not the person is satisfied with life. Typically, successful relations with one's family and a successful career are enough to leave someone feeling that they have made the most of the time they had. Unrepaired relationships, disatisfying careers, or lost opportunities can leave one feeling unfulfilled.