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Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy)
Jane's mother responded promptly to her cries, feeding and comforting her consistently. Through this care, Jane developed a sense of trust in the world around her. This stage is about learning whether the world is predictable and supportive. Infants who experience consistent, nurturing care develop trust, while neglect or unpredictability can lead to mistrust of others. -
Identity vs. Role Confusion (Adolescence)
In high school, Jane explored different interests trying to figure out who she was. She struggled with self-doubt but ultimately found a passion for creative writing, helping her define her identity. This stage is about forming a clear sense of self. Adolescents experiment with roles and beliefs, and successful resolution leads to a strong identity, while uncertainty can cause role confusion. -
Generativity vs. Stagnation (Adulthood)
As an established author, Jane started mentoring young writers, sharing her knowledge and guiding them toward success. She felt fulfilled knowing she was contributing to the next generation. Adults in this stage strive to create meaningful contribution through work and family. Success leads to a sense of generativity, while failing to make an impact can result in stagnation.