-
Autonomy vs. Shame
At 3 years old, Sherry's mom allows her to pick her own clothes because Sherry is old enough to make daily independent decisions. In Erikson's second stage, the crisis is between developing autonomy from becoming more independent, versus developing shame and dependence on others that results in lower confidence. Success in this stage will result in the virtue of will. -
Intimacy vs. Isolation
Sherry marries her long-term partner, and they vow to love each other and live the rest of their lives together. The crisis in the sixth stage of Erikson's theory is isolation versus intimacy. This stage involves deciding to share a life with a partner or committing to a life of loneliness and isolation. Success in this stage will result in the virtue of love. -
Generativity vs. Stagnation
Sherry gives birth to a beautiful baby boy who she can nurture. Her child serves to give back to her society. The crisis in the seventh stage of Erikson's theory is between generativity and stagnation. An individual can nurture and make a positive contribution to society through raising a child, community involvement, or career success. If generativity is not achieved, then the individual will experience a disconnect from their community. Success in this stage results in the virtue of care.
