Developmental Changes in the Human Life Span

Trust vs. Mistrust

• In the first two years of life -- infancy -- babies learn either trust or mistrust. Ideally, they learn to trust their caregivers as a direct result of the caregivers' consistent care and affection. Infants who fail to learn trust will have difficulties developing meaningful relationships later in life.

Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

• From age 2 to age 3, children develop a sense of autonomy by gaining control over physical skills and expressing opinions. Children learn autonomy through potty training, walking, talking and being allowed to make simple decisions. Children who are physically unable to do so or who are prohibited from becoming more autonomous during the toddler years will begin to feel a sense of shame and doubt in their ability to excel.

Initiative vs. Guilt

• The developmental goal of children age 3 to age 5 is a continuation of early childhood. During this period, children attempt to explore and exert an increasing level of control over their environment. This might mean picking their own clothes, naming pets, choosing activities and verbalizing preferences. Children who are discouraged from taking the initiative will come to feel a sense of guilt about themselves and their personality.

Industry vs. Inferiority

• From age 6 to age 11, children learn how to succeed academically and socially. School is extremely important at this developmental stage. Having friends, learning new skills and getting good grades help children feel industrious and competent. Children who are unable to succeed in their schoolwork or interpersonal relationships will begin to feel inferior to their peers.

Identity vs. Role Confusion

• From age 12 to age 18, adolescents reach sexual and social maturity. During these years, social relationships are the most important developmental feature. Teens establish their personal identity, establish a sense of self and learn to relate to those around them. Children who are not allowed to explore their identity or feel ashamed due to earlier developmental failures may be unable to establish a sense of self. This can lead to low self-confidence and unpredictable behavior.

Intimacy vs. Isolation

• During young adulthood, lasting from age 19 to age 40, individuals seek to establish intimate, meaningful relationships. Young adult relationships emphasize sharing important events, values, feelings and ideas. Finding a life partner and establishing familial bonds achieve the goal of obtaining intimacy. Failure to establish meaningful relationships can cause young adults to feel isolated, lonely and unlovable.

Generativity vs. Stagnation

• During middle adulthood, individuals seek to build successful families and careers. From age 40 to age 65, parenting and working are the most important developmental activities. Successful child rearing and the completion of meaningful work give individuals in this developmental stage a sense of accomplishment and generativity. Individuals who do not have a family or job to invest in may become stagnant and feel a low sense of purpose.

Ego Integrity vs. Despair

• During the final developmental stage, people spend a great deal of time reflecting on their life. From around age 65 until death, individuals look back on their life and try to come to terms with both the good and bad. If they feel like they led a meaningful life, then they will gain a sense of accomplishment or "ego integrity." Dissatisfaction with their past can cause despair and depression since they may feel that they have no time to rectify their mistakes.