Question

discuss the educational implications of Erikson's stages of development

Answer 1

Erikc Erikson ,psychologist developed a theory of social development ,this consist of 8 stages termed as psychosocial crises.Each stage consist of a  dilemma or choice that carries both advantage and risk ,but one choice or alternative normally considered more desirable or healthy.In this four stages occur during the school years .

Trust ,autonomy and initiative are the stages which takes place in infants and preschooler .From the birth onwards baby in a crisis of trust and mistrust .They are happier and satisfied when they get food,sleep and clean diaper whenever they need.According to Erikson trust and mistrust between the baby and mother develops during these periods .Here the baby faces a dilemma about how much to trust or mistrust the mother's helpfullness.From birth onwards ,between the two of them mother and baby reolve this choice in favour of the baby's trust .By these baby learn the first steps of mother's motivation and skill at care giving.Trusting others develops in this period and if fails it will lead to a state of arrogance.

The next crisis autonomy versus shame occurs during the toddler period and these crises arises between the child and the caregiver .When the child tries to learn autonomy in basic needs such as feeding ,toiletting etc ...that crises resolves and if the caregiver is overprotecting and critizising in every child's activities develops shame in that child.Thus a child is becomes master over their basic needs by these periods .If this stage is not nicely resolved leads to a development oif a shy personality.Such child has always a hesitation to do everything .

The next crisis initiative and guilt start to develop during the preschool period.For a child their day care centre will be a big place where all toys are available .From here child learns to initiate activities ,share things etc...If they not satisfied inthis period it may develop guilt in baby.If the child resolve this problem the child is capable of take initiatives in every activities.He will become a good leader .Thus leadership quality start to develops inside the child during this preschool days.

6 years to 12 years child goes through the next crisis industry verses inferiority.From these period onwards the child facing the crisis of competent and worthy in the eyes of the society ,here for a school child society is their class and their school.If a child getting good support from the family to develop self confidence will become more efficient and energetic.If one fails to secure it will goes to the world of inferiority.Thus teachers have a defenite role in helping students to resolve this crisis in favour of industry or success.Teachers can set realistic academic goals for students .They can encourage the students to perform better.Teachers can correct the student In their academical feild without making them feel less confident.

The next stage intimacy verses isolation is also having a role in school days especially in higher education time .This crisis develops in the adolescent period.In adolescent period one spent more time with peer groups and teachers than family members .From here one learn to develop good friendship and social relationship .If the crisis is not resolved it will lead to an isolated and seperated life in a person.

Thus Erikson's developmental stages has a variety of educational implications.