The Eriksons' Psychosocial Developmental Theory

Erik and Joan Erikson spent over half a century analyzing the human life cycle. Although the theory is usually credited to Erik Erikson, much of it was co-constructed with Joan Erikson, his wife of over 60 years. The Eriksons’ developmental theory focuses on social/emotional influences and is referred to as a psychosocial developmental theory. The theory not only addresses childhood, it includes the entire life cycle and delineates the inherent tensions that must be balanced and rebalanced within each stage of development. The framework offers a predictable pattern in which to examine every person’s life story. After briefly introducing Erik and Joan’s life stories, this chapter outlines the Eriksons’ first four stages of the eight life stages, and explores how early childhood educators can apply the tenets of the theory to their practice within each of these stages. Further applications of Eriksons’ theory to select contemporary challenges conclude the chapter.