Theories Social Workers Use: Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development

In this video, we delve into Erik Erikson’s influential theory of Psychosocial Development. Introduced in the 1950s, Erikson’s theory provides a framework for understanding how social interactions shape our growth from infancy through adulthood. This theory is particularly significant in the fields of social work and psychology, offering insights into human development across the lifespan. We break down each of the eight stages Erikson identified, explaining the key conflicts and resolutions at each stage: Stage 1: Infancy (Trust vs. Mistrust) Age: Birth to 18 months Infants rely on caregivers for basic needs, developing trust when these needs are met and mistrust when they are not. Stage 2: Toddlerhood (Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt) Age: 18 months to 3 years Children start exploring independence. Supportive caregivers foster autonomy, while overprotective or critical ones cause shame and doubt. Stage 3: Preschool (Initiative vs. Guilt) Age: 3 to 6 years Children assert themselves and take initiative. Encouragement leads to initiative, while criticism fosters guilt. Stage 4: Early School Years (Industry vs. Inferiority) Age: 6 to 12 years Children compare themselves with peers. Positive reinforcement of their skills leads to a sense of industry (accomplishment), while negative experiences foster inferiority. Stage 5: Adolescence (Identity vs. Role Confusion) Age: 12 to 18 years Teens explore identity. Support in self-discovery fosters a strong identity, while pressure leads to role confusion. Stage 6: Young Adulthood (Intimacy vs. Isolation) Age: 18 to 40 years Forming intimate relationships is crucial. Successful connections lead to intimacy, while failure results in isolation. Stage 7: Middle Adulthood (Generativity vs. Stagnation) Age: 40 to 65 years Adults focus on contributing to society. Successful contributions foster generativity (concern for others), while lack of purpose leads to stagnation. Stage 8: Late Adulthood (Integrity vs. Despair) Age: 65+ years Reflection on life leads to integrity if one feels fulfilled, or despair if there are regrets. Each stage is accompanied by practical applications for social workers, emphasising how understanding these stages can enhance social work practice. From identifying early bonding issues in infancy to supporting older adults in their life review process, this video highlights the importance of tailoring interventions to meet individuals where they are developmentally. 📌 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with my latest videos! Let me know in the comments what topics you'd like me to discuss next. To connect further or find out what resources I offer follow the link - https://linktr.ee/kayleighrevans For business enquiries or to book me for training email [email protected] Tags: #ErikErikson #PsychosocialDevelopment #SocialWorkTheory #HumanDevelopment #EriksonsStages #Psychology #SocialWorkPractice #TrustVsMistrust #AutonomyVsShame #InitiativeVsGuilt #IndustryVsInferiority #IdentityVsRoleConfusion #IntimacyVsIsolation #GenerativityVsStagnation #IntegrityVsDespair #ChildDevelopment #AdolescentDevelopment #AdultDevelopment #LifespanDevelopment #MentalHealth #Counseling #SocialWorkEducation #TheoriesInSocialWork #FreudVsErikson #DevelopmentalPsychology