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George's decision to play football: Industry vs Inferiority
George (age 11) tried out for the after school football program stemming from praises received by the gym teacher (also coach) and peers, on his athleticism during class. In Erikson's fourth stage, Industry vs. Inferiority, the crisis is a child's social group becoming significantly important and so does winning their approval. If the child is not encouraged or prevented in doing activities to accomplish this they begin to feel below them, leading to self doubt. If praised competence is achieved -
George enlists in the Army: Identity vs. Role Confusion
George (age 18) follows in his father's footsteps and enlists in the Army after discovering many of his own values align with what they have to offer and teach. In Erikson's fifth stage, Identity vs. Role Confusion, the child turning into a young adult attempts to self identify. The crisis in this stage is being able to find oneself, values, beliefs and understand your self-concept or struggle to find a positive role in which you are satisfied with, leading to confusing. -
George's decision to marry: Intimacy vs. Isolation
George (age 20) and Adrianne get married deciding to share their life together working together as a team. In Erikson's sixth stage, Intimacy vs. Isolation, young adults seek out deeper companionship with others. The crisis lays with committing and trusting someone else you hold dear or loneliness and avoiding human companionship.
