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Billy's Life in Terms of Erikson's Stages of Development

  • Billy starts 6th grade at a new school and struggles in his classes and with making friends, leading to self doubt and a hesitance to try new things.

    Billy starts 6th grade at a new school and struggles in his classes and with making friends, leading to self doubt and a hesitance to try new things.
    In Erikson's fourth stage, industry vs inferiority, children begin to become competent in academic and social skills, leading to confidence and ambition if they are met with encouragement, or insecurity if they are restricted or not reinforced.
  • Billy's girlfriend ends their relationship because she feels he is not being vulnerable enough

    Billy's girlfriend ends their relationship because she feels he is not being vulnerable enough
    Erikson's sixth stage, intimacy vs isolation, individuals begin forming intimate relationships with others, resulting in either feelings of safety and commitment or fear, isolation, and depression.
  • Billy does not have children, instead finding purpose in his work as a public defender

    Billy does not have children, instead finding purpose in his work as a public defender
    In Erikson's seventh stage, generativity vs. stagnation, adults feel a need to give back to others and promote positivity, leading to feelings of accomplishment and fulfillment if successful and feelings of disconnection and being "stuck" if not successful.