The nurse is caring for a 10-year-old client who states, “I am really good at soccer because I practice every day.” According to Erikson’s eight stages of development, which psychosocial crisis does this statement reflect?
The client at this age is in the industry vs. inferiority stage. Successful resolution results in competence and the ability to work. Initiative vs. guilt is the stage of the preschool (ages 3 – 6) child. The desired outcome is a sense of purpose and ability to initiate one’s own activities. Middle adulthood (ages 35 – 65) is a period of generativity vs. self-absorption. Success at this stage results in the ability to give and care for others. The child in early childhood (ages 1 1/2 – 3) is experiencing autonomy vs. shame and doubt. Successful resolution of this stage gives the child willpower and a sense of self-control.
