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Infancy - Sensorimotor Stage
During infancy, babies learn about the world through their senses and actions (sensorimotor stage, Piaget). My parents told me that when I was a baby, I used to put everything in my mouth, such as keys and toys. This reflects the sensorimotor stage, where infants explore through sucking and grasping. -
Infancy - Attachment Theory
Attachment is the emotional bond between a child and caregiver, categorized into secure, avoidant, ambivalent, and disorganized types. As a toddler, I always cried if my mom left me with a babysitter, but I was happy when she returned. This indicates a secure attachment. -
Early Childhood - Preoperational Thinking
Piaget’s preoperational stage (ages 2-7) involves symbolic thinking, egocentrism, and a lack of logical reasoning. When I was 4, I believed that if I covered my eyes, no one could see me during hide-and-seek. This shows egocentrism. -
Early Childhood - Initiative vs. Guilt (Erikson)
Erikson’s stage (ages 3-6) is about taking initiative but feeling guilt if criticized. At age 5, I tried to help my mom cook by adding ingredients, but I accidentally spilled flour everywhere. Instead of scolding me, she encouraged me, which helped me feel confident in trying new things. -
Middle Childhood - Concrete Operational Thinking
In Piaget’s concrete operational stage (ages 7-11), children develop logical thinking and understand conservation. When I was in elementary school, I realized that even if you pour the same amount of juice into different shaped glasses, it doesn’t change the amount. This was my first understanding of conservation. -
Middle Childhood - Industry vs. Inferiority (Erikson)
This stage (ages 6-12) involves developing competence in skills; failure leads to feelings of inferiority. In fourth grade, I struggled with math. When I finally improved and got a good grade, I felt a sense of accomplishment, which boosted my confidence. -
Identity vs. Role Confusion (Erikson)
Adolescents explore different roles to form their identity. At 15, I experimented with different styles. One year I dressed sporty, the next I cared more about how I dressed. This was me figuring out who I was. -
Adolescence - Peer Pressure & Social Identity
Friends influence behavior, either positively or negatively. Last year, when I joined the basketball team, my friends encouraged me and influenced my personality. It ended up being a great experience, helping me develop confidence.