Stages of Social-Emotional |
Page 4 |
Erikson’s First Four Stages of Social-Emotional Development
Stage: Basic Trust vs. Basic Mistrust
Approximate Age: Birth to 12-18 months
An infant needs a consistent caregiver who provides for their basic needs in a nurturing and caring environment. Description: Infants need loving and trusting relationships with parents and other caregivers to develop a sense of trust. Infants who do not receive consistent and nurturing care are at risk for developing a sense of mistrust of others. |
Stage: Autonomy vs. Shame/Doubt
Approximate Age: 18 months to 3 years
Toddlers need caring adults who provide a supervised, safe, environment that provides the child with opportunities to learn new physical skills. Description: During this stage the child becomes more independent, learning to walk, run, climb, build, draw and talk. Toilet learning is a key skill for this stage. Children who are supported and supervised by adults as they develop new skills and independence feel responsible and capable. Children who receive negative messages from parents and caregivers may begin to doubt their abilities and lose self-confidence. |
Stage: Initiative vs. Guilt
Approximate Age: 3 to 6 years
Preschool children need a safe environment that encourages making choices. Description: At this age children become more independent, assertive and take more initiative. Teachers and other adults need to provide an environment that supports the child’s efforts but also helps guide their activities to prevent “unhappy” endings that may create feelings of guilt. |
Stage: Industry vs. Inferiority
Approximate Age: 6 to 12 years
School age children need an environment with encouraging adults that provides opportunities to develop and create their own ideas. Description: School age children are learning to develop more complex social and academic skills. Children who experience success discover that being productive is satisfying. On the other hand, children who fail in school or other settings may begin to feel inferior and inadequate. Adult guidance that deemphasizes mistakes and focuses on problem solving helps focus the child on accomplishments. |
Why is this important?
Erickson’s theory helps teachers identify the types of teacher–child interactions required for healthy social and emotional development. Erickson’s theory helps people who work with young children understand the importance of providing specific types of interactions and environments to ensure positive social-emotional development for young children. |