• Trust vs. Mistrust
    Infancy (0–1 year)
    Babies learn whether the world is safe and reliable.

  • Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt
    Early Childhood (1–3 years)
    Children develop independence or feel doubt about their abilities.

  • Initiative vs. Guilt
    Preschool (3–6 years)
    Children begin taking initiative and leading activities, or feel guilty for trying.

  • Industry vs. Inferiority
    School Age (6–12 years)
    Children work to master skills; success builds confidence, failure leads to feeling inferior.

  • Identity vs. Role Confusion
    Adolescence (12–18 years)
    Teens explore who they are; confusion happens when they struggle to form a stable identity.

  • Intimacy vs. Isolation
    Young Adulthood (18–40 years)
    Adults form close relationships or struggle with loneliness and avoidance.

  • Generativity vs. Stagnation
    Middle Adulthood (40–65 years)
    Adults focus on contributing to society or feel unproductive.

  • Integrity vs. Despair
    Late Adulthood (65+)
    Older adults reflect on life with satisfaction or regret.

Last modified: Monday, 17 November 2025, 2:21 AM