Which statement best describes Erikson's Theory?

• A. It posits eight stages of development, each with a crisis to resolve.
• B. It claims a single stage of development.
• C. It focuses on cognitive development milestones only.
• D. It is based on reinforcement schedules.

Answer: (C)

Erikson's theory describes psychosocial development unfolding across the whole lifespan, with eight distinct stages. Each stage presents a central psychosocial crisis that a person must navigate, and how that crisis is resolved influences the development of the self and social functioning. This perspective integrates interactions with others and emotional growth, rather than focusing solely on thinking skills or learning through rewards. For example, infancy centers on trust versus mistrust, while adolescence involves identity versus role confusion, and later adulthood covers integrity versus despair. Successfully resolving these crises strengthens a person’s sense of self and social competence; unresolved crises can lead to ongoing challenges. This differs from views that propose a single stage, emphasize only cognitive milestones, or rely on reinforcement schedules.