How many stages are included in Erikson’s psychosocial development theory?

Erikson's psychosocial development theory includes eight distinct stages that span a person’s entire lifespan, from infancy to late adulthood. Each stage is characterized by a central conflict or challenge that individuals must confront in order to develop a healthy personality and acquire essential virtues. These stages are sequential, and successful resolution of the conflicts leads to the development of strengths or virtues that are crucial for future development.

The stages are:

1. Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy)
2. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (Early Childhood)
3. Initiative vs. Guilt (Preschool Age)
4. Industry vs. Inferiority (School Age)
5. Identity vs. Role Confusion (Adolescence)
6. Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young Adulthood)
7. Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle Adulthood)
8. Integrity vs. Despair (Late Adulthood)

Each of these stages is vital for psychological growth and influences an individual's ability to navigate adult relationships and challenges. By the end of the eighth stage, individuals ideally develop a sense of fulfillment and acceptance of their life achievements or grapple with regrets and dissatisfaction. This comprehensive framework highlights the lifelong nature of personal development, emphasizing the importance of