-
Trust vs. Mistrust
Ben is a baby and he depends on his mother and father to care for him. When he cries they immediately come to see if Ben is hungry or if his diaper needs to be changed. This would be Erikson's first stage of trust vs. mistrust. The crisis is whether or not Ben can trust the people that care for him. If he cannot then he will develop a sense of mistrust that will negatively have long term consequences. -
Initiative vs. Guilt
Ben is a young toddler and is trying to be independent. He tries to tie his shoes every morning. His mother is always patient and lets him do it himself. This is Erikson's 3rd stage initiative vs. guilt. This can be a crisis when parents are in a rush and don't allow their kids to be independent. Toddlers want to be able to do things themselves. If not given the chance Ben could feel guilty. -
Integrity vs. Despair
Ben is 88 years old and is reflecting on the life he has lived. He has married, worked at the railroad for 30 years but is now retired and has 15 grandchildren. He has enjoyed passing down life advice to his children and grandchildren. Ben feels a sense of satisfaction for his life. This is Erikson's 8th stage of integrity vs. despair. There could be a crisis when an older person feels a sense of failure or has regret for the life they have lived.