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Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt
Sally (age 3) needs to get dressed. Her mother laid out five different outfit options, and told Sally to pick one, and dress herself. In the stage of autonomy vs. shame, it is critical that children have the freedom to be independent, while not experiencing constant failure. Sally can make decisions and perform tasks for and by herself, supporting her independence. At the same time, her mom is ensuring that Sally's wardrobe choices will be appropriate, saving her from possible ridicule/shame. -
Identity vs. Role confusion
Sally, an 18 year old senior in high school, has just received her college acceptance letter. She is going to be a Biology major on the Pre-Med track, and she is excited to pursue the career she has always wanted, and to be a positive influence in society. In the stage of identity vs. role confusion, children learn what roles they will take on as adults and create an identity for themselves. Conflict comes when there is failure to establish an identity, or one is pushed in a certain direction. -
Generativity vs. Stagnation
Sally (age 45) is an Ophthalmologist in her hometown, and has been married for 15 years. She has two elementary age children, is involved in the PTA at their school, and loves her job. In the stage of generativity vs. stagnation, the conflict is between being a part of your community and giving back to society, and feeling unproductive, as though you have stagnated. Sally has resolved this conflict well.
