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W OPTION 5-- THEORIES TEACHER INFORMATION CHILD DEVELOPMENT THEORISTS Today we will review the basic theories of Erik Erikson, Sigmund Freud, Arnold Gesell, Lawrence Kohlberg, Abraham Maslow, and Jean Piaget. ERIKSON (ERIK) Erik Erikson developed eight specific stages of personality from birth to old age. He believes that the personality develops continuously throughout the life cycle. The individual's personality is in constant motion; it is always redeveloping itself. 1. Developing a sense of trust versus mistrust--INFANCY--The degree to which a child comes to trust or mistrust others is determined to a great extent on the quality of care received. Babies that receive love and attention develop confidence and trust in people. Babies that are neglected and abused become insecure and mistrustful. 2. Developing a sense of autonomy versus shame--2-4 YEARS--During this stage, children experience freedom or self-direction. if parents recognize the child's need to exercise these skills at the child's own pace, the child will develop a sense of autonomy; if the parents ignore or discourage this stage, the child will begin to doubt himself/herself. 3. Developing a sense of initiative versus guilt--4-6 YEARS--At this age, a child has control of his/her body and initiates motor activities as well as fantasy and language activities. if told that his/her activities are senseless or futile, a sense of guilt develops about having initiated them. They also begin to learn social skills (cooperating, leading, and following). 4. Developing a sense of industry versus inferiority--SCHOOL AGE--If growing curiosity is encouraged, the child will develop a sense of industry; if his/her sense of industry is discouraged, the child will feel inferior. They learn that work is worthwhile and meaningful. They learn to discipline themselves and to get along with others. 5. Developing a sense of identity versus role confusion--ADOLESCENCE--Identity is determined by the ability of the individual to bring together all the things learned about himself/herself and integrate these different roles into a whole that shows continuity with the past while preparing for the future. Adolescents begin to mature and to view the world differently. They have a strong need to establish an identify and require good role models. If one's identity is not found, an individual can find himself/herself preoccupied with appearance in the eyes of others, conforming and feeling an overall failure. 6. Developing a sense of intimacy versus isolation-- YOUNG ADULTHOOD-- Intimacy is the ability to share with and care about another person without fear of losing oneself in the process. This sort of intimacy makes possible a good Marriage or a genuine and enduring friendship. Young adults that succeed in this stage have accepted themselves for who they are and as worthwhile people. If there is difficulty in finding close personal relations because the special self has not found itself, there comes a feeling of isolation and loniiness. 
