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First stage
Annie (6 months) starts to cry and looks at her mother. Although she does not understand coldness, she is uncomfortable and seeks relief from her caregiver. In Erikson’s first stage, trust versus mistrust, the crisis is between learning trust and mistrust. If Annie’s mother relieves her discomfort, she will learn that the world is pleasant and she can depend on others. If ignored Annie will learn that she is alone in the world and will be skeptical of others. -
Second stage
Annie (2 years) plays hide and go seek with her mother. She hides behind the bedroom door and knows that her mother cannot see her. In Erikson’s second stage, autonomy versus shame and doubt, in this stage the crisis is between learning self and domination. Annie knows her mother will find her even though they are not standing next to each other. If she were never allowed to explore out of direct sight, Annie would learn that she is unable and scared to cope without direct help. -
Fourth stage
Annie (5 years) attends her first day of Kindergarten. Her teacher asks all the kids to sit in a desk. In Erickson’s fourth stage, industry verses inferiority, Annie learns what she should do in her new environment. By learning to raise her hand and take turns, she learns that her classmates are equally as important as she is and that learning with others can be fun. If Annie did not learn the importance of sharing, she would not have friends and would spent time in unwanted isolation.
