What theory is associated with Erik Erikson?

Erik Erikson is renowned for his Psychosocial Theory, which is pivotal in the field of developmental psychology. This theory emphasizes the impact of social experiences across a person's entire lifespan. Erikson proposed that individuals face a series of eight stages of psychosocial development, each characterized by a specific conflict that must be resolved for healthy psychological development. These stages span from infancy to late adulthood and highlight the role of social relationships and culture in shaping personality and identity.

Psychosocial conflicts, such as trust versus mistrust in infancy or identity versus role confusion in adolescence, illustrate how we must navigate and successfully resolve challenges throughout life, which in turn influences our ability to interact with the world and develop emotionally and socially. This comprehensive approach distinguishes Erikson’s work from other theories that focus more narrowly on behavioral, cognitive, or emotional aspects without placing equal emphasis on social context.