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Infancy: Cognitive Development
The first stage of cognitive development, this stage includes object permanence, the understanding that objects continue to exist even when out of sight. When I was a baby, my parents used to play peek-a-boo with me. At first, when they covered their faces, I would get confused or even cry because I thought they were gone. But as I got older, I started to giggle and pull their hands away, realizing they were still there even though I couldn’t see them. -
Infancy: Psychosocial Development
Trust vs. Mistrust (Erikson) – In the first stage of psychosocial development, infants learn to trust caregivers when their needs are consistently met. I had a favorite toy drum that I carried everywhere because I felt comforted by it because my mom gave it to me. I also remember always reaching for my mom when I was scared or upset. Because my parents consistently comforted and took care of me, I learned to trust them and the world around me. -
Early Childhood: Psychosocial Development
Initiative vs. Guilt (Erikson) – In this stage, children begin to take initiative in planning activities, but they may feel guilty if their efforts fail or are criticized. I wanted to help make breakfast, so I tried pouring milk into a bowl by myself. I ended up spilling it everywhere. Instead of getting mad, my mom laughed and helped me clean up. Because she encouraged me, I felt proud rather than guilty and kept wanting to help. -
Early Childhood: Cognitive Development
Preoperational Stage (Piaget) – This stage is marked by symbolic thinking and egocentrism, where children struggle to see things from another person’s perspective. When I was around four years old, I would get frustrated when my parents or siblings didn’t immediately understand what I wanted. I assumed they knew exactly what I was thinking, just like I did. I also loved pretend play, like making my dolls "talk" to each other, which is a hallmark of this stage. -
Middle Childhood: Cognitive Development
Concrete Operational Stage (Piaget) – In this stage, children begin to think logically about concrete events and understand concepts. I remember being amazed in elementary school when my teacher poured the same amount of water into a tall, skinny glass and a short, wide glass. At first, I thought the taller glass had more water, but when she explained that both had the same amount, I finally understood the concept of conservation. -
Middle Childhood: Psychosocial Development
Industry vs. Inferiority (Erikson) – During this stage, children develop a sense of competence by learning new skills. If they are encouraged, they feel motivated, if they experience repeated failure, they may feel inferior. I spent weeks practicing the violin. I was so proud when I could play a few notes correctly, but when I got one wrong, I felt embarrassed. However, my teacher and parents encouraged me which made me feel capable and confident. -
Adolescence: Cognitive Development
Formal Operational Stage (Piaget) – This stage is marked by the ability to think abstractly, reason hypothetically, and consider multiple perspectives. I remember when I first started complex topics in school and also learning how to play the violin. Before, I saw things as mostly black and white, but during adolescence, I started understanding the complexity of issues and thinking more critically about them. -
Adolescence: Psychosocial Development
Identity vs. Role Confusion (Erikson) – Adolescents explore different roles and beliefs to form their identity. If they struggle to find a clear sense of self, they may experience role confusion. During my early teen years, I experimented with different hobbies and friend groups, trying to figure out who I was. At one point, I thought I wanted to pursue a completely different career, but over time, I discovered my true interests and became more confident in my identity. I liked to dance. -
Adolescence: Social Development
Peer Pressure Identity Formation – During adolescence, peers play a major role in shaping behavior, values, and self-concept. Positive peer influence can encourage personal growth, while negative peer pressure may lead to risky behaviors. I remember feeling pressure to dress a certain way in middle school because my friends all followed a specific trend. At first, I copied them to fit in, but over time, I realized I felt more confident choosing my own style. -
Adolescence- Relationships
Erikson’s psychosocial development theory is associated with the Identity vs. Role Confusion stage. Friendships play a crucial role in this stage because adolescents rely on their peers to explore different aspects of their identity. If I have a friend who’s also interested in healthcare, we might talk about medical careers, study anatomy together, or even volunteer somewhere related to nursing. Those conversations and experiences make me feel more confident in my decision to pursue this path.