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Sarah's Sleepover: Initiative vs. Guilt
Sarah (age 8) decided to have a sleepover with a few of her new friends from elementary school. She has planned this in order to get to know her friends better and have a fun time. She has taken the initiative to create fun activities that would make this a memorable time. In Erikson's third stage, initiative vs. guilt, the crisis is that she will have an unsuccessful sleepover and either she or someone else will be treated harshly, leading her to feel guilt. -
Sarah's Prom Night: Identity vs. Identity Confusion
Sarah's prom night is officially here (age 17) and she is very excited. Sarah has been looking forward to this day since her freshman year of high school. In Erikson's fifth stage: identity vs. identity confusion, Sarah is struggling to find out who she is. The crisis is that she is concerned about what happens after this big event. She is confused about what step to take next, since the prospect of college is soon approaching, resulting in identity confusion. -
Sarah's Wedding Day: Intimacy vs. Isolation
Sarah (age 29) found the person that she wants to marry, and it has come to that day. Sarah is happy to have found her person, but is concerned that marriage will affect their current relationship. In Erikson's sixth stage, intimacy vs. isolation, the crisis would be having Sarah unable to open up and be vulnerable with her partner.
