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Trust vs. Mistrust
Rebecca is 5 months old. Her mother decides it is time for Rebecca to sleep through the night and begins the practice of "sleep training". This involves leaving Rebecca in her crib all night without any comfort when she cries for a need until she falls asleep.
This stage of Erickson's theory is when the infant establishes if they can be safe and loved. If the infants needs are met, trust is established. If their needs are not met, they establish mistrust. -
Industry vs. Inferiority
Rebecca is now 9 years old, and she received a beading kit for her birthday. She begins making different kinds of bracelets with her kit. Later, she starts wearing her bracelets to school. Several of her female classmates complement her and asks if she would make similar ones for them.
This stage of Erickson's theory is when a child establish their own interests. If they become distinguished for these interests, they develop industry. If there is a negative response, they develop inferiority. -
Intimacy vs. Isolation
Rebecca is 27 years old. Last year she broke up with her boyfriend of 3 years. The breakup was a very difficult time because she desires a long term committed partner. However, she recently met someone new at a gathering with friends, and they are going on a date.
This stage of Erickson's theory is when young adults take their newly created identities and enter into a committed relationship to form intimacy. If they are afraid or unwilling to commit, this can lead to isolation.