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Zack (age 12) decided to start playing drums for a local band because he wanted to eventually have a career as a musician.
In Erikson's fifth stage of Identity verses Identity Confusion, the main developmental challenge is developing an identity and understanding one's abilities and role in society (Identity) verses remaining unsure or insecure about one's capabilities (Identity Confusion). -
Zack (age 20) started dating Elena (age 19) to see if she could be his wife someday.
In Erikson's sixth stage, Intimacy verses Isolation, the main developmental challenge is forming a committed, long-term romantic relationship (Intimacy) verses remaining isolated. -
Elena (age 29) gives birth to Zack's (age 30) third child; a boy they name Lewis. They have spent the last few years creating a home for, and nurturing their two other children: Judah (age 6) and Evelyn (age 4). They will continue to care and provide for their children.
In Erickson's seventh stage, Generativity vs. Stagnation, the main developmental challenge is to invest in the next generation (Generativity) verses remaining focused on one's own well-being, which leads to Stagnation.