Question

Describe development and include Freudian and Erikson theoretical perspectives. Compare these two theories.

Answer 1

Erikson’s theory describes the impact of social experience across the whole lifespan in contrast to the psychosexual theory personality is mostly established by the age of five. According to this theory the psychosexual energy, or libido, is the driving force behind behavior.

At Age: Birth to 1 Year

According to Freud; at this point in development, a child's primary source of pleasure is through the mouth via sucking, eating, and tasting.

According to Erikson children learn to either trust or mistrust their caregivers.

Age: 1 to 3 Years

According to Freud; at this point in development called the anal stage Children gain a sense of mastery and competence by controlling bladder and bowel movements.

According to Erikson, this is called the autonomy versus shame and doubt stage. Children develop self-sufficiency by controlling activities such as eating, toilet training, and talking.

Ages: 3 to 6 Years

Freud termed this as the phallic stage.

The libido's energy is focused on the genitals. Children begin to identify with their same-sex parent.

Boys experience the Oedipus complex while girls experience the Electra complex

Erikson's termed this as the initiative versus guilt stage.

Children are in a position to take more control over their environment.

Age: Adolescence

According to Freud at this stage; the libido's energy is suppressed and children are focused on other activities such as school, friends, and hobbies.

According to Erikson at this stage children develop a sense of competence by mastering new skills.

Age: Adolescence

At this stage according to Freud children begin to explore romantic relationships.

According to Erikson at this stage; Children develop a personal identity and sense of self.

Age: Adulthood

According to Freud; the genital stage lasts throughout adulthood

According to Erikson adulthood is a stage of intimacy vs isolation.