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Mommy Knows Best
After being frightened by the sudden chime of the doorbell, 6 month old Alice snuggled back into the comfort of her mother's arms where she knew she would be safe and protected. This is an example of Erikson's first stage, trust versus mistrust because it shows how Alice focused on trusting her mother rather than her mistrusting the person at the door. -
I Can Do It!
Alice and Mary were eating their cheese and crackers together. Mary grabbed a handful and proceeded to feed herself. Noticing the proud autonomy displayed, Alice tried to feed herself as well. Sadly, she dropped one of the crackers. She instantly found herself full of self-disappointment and shame. This is a great example of Erikson's second stage autonomy versus shame and doubt; because, when Alice tried to copy Mary's autonomy, she was unsuccessful and thus was ashamed. -
I Know Something You Don't Know!
Alice proudly brought home her third grade progress report full of perfect scores. She loved learning and was top of her class! In Erikson's fourth stage industry versus inferiority, children attend school and learn not only academics but also social skills with their peers. In this case, Alice had been taught to value not only her own intelligence but also herself in general.
