Stage 8: Integrity vs.

despair
Over 65 years old

● Virtue: Wisdom, Maldevelopment: Disdain

● Example: Contemplation and acknowledgment of personal life accomplishments

During the final stage of psychosocial development, maturity and old age, we are confronted with a
choice between ego integrity and despair. These attitudes govern the way we evaluate our whole life.
Our major endeavors are at or nearing completion. We examine and reflect on life, taking its final
measure. If we look back with a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction, believing we have coped with
life’s victories and failures, then we are said to possess ego integrity. The final psychosocial stage
occurs during old age and is focused on reflecting back on life. At this point in development, people
look back on the events of their lives and determine if they are happy with the life that they lived or if
they regret the things they did or didn't do.

It involves accepting one’s place and one’s past. If we review our life with a sense of frustration,
angry about missed opportunities and regretful of mistakes that cannot be rectified, then we will feel
despair. We become disgusted with ourselves, contemptuous of others, and bitter over what might
have been. An individual reflects on the life they have lived and may develop either integrity—a sense
of satisfaction in having lived a good life and the ability to approach death with equanimity—or
despair—a feeling of bitterness about opportunities missed and time wasted, and a dread of
approaching death.

Success and Failure In Stage Eight

Success in this stage will lead to the virtue of wisdom. Wisdom enables a person to look back on their
life with a sense of closure and completeness, and also accept death without fear.

Individuals who reflect on their lives and regret not achieving their goals will experience bitterness
and despair.

Erik Erikson believed if we see our lives as unproductive, feel guilt about our past, or feel that we did
not accomplish our life goals, we become dissatisfied with life and develop despair, often leading to
depression and hopelessness.

This could potentially lead to feelings of fear and dread about their mortality.
A continuous state of ego integrity does not characterize wise people, but they experience both ego
integrity and despair. Thus, late life is characterized by integrity and despair as alternating states that
must be balanced.

Those who are unsuccessful during this stage will feel that their life has been wasted and may
experience many regrets. The person will be left with feelings of bitterness and despair. As
philosopher Søren Kierkegaard states: "Life can only be understood backward; but it must be lived
forwards." This emphasizes the reflective nature of this stage and the importance of understanding
one's life journey.

● Reflection and Contentment: Late Adulthood is characterized by reflection on life's

achievements and a sense of contentment or despair, depending on the individual's perception
of their life journey.
● Ego Integrity: A sense of pride and fulfillment in one's achievements leads to aging gracefully
and a willingness to share wisdom.
● Influence of Cultural and Environmental Factors: Ego integrity in late adulthood is shaped by
a complex interplay of cultural and psycho-social environmental influences, emphasizing the
multifaceted nature of this stage.

10 Integrity Vs Despair Examples

● A retired individual reflects on their life and feels a sense of satisfaction and contentment,
believing they have lived a good life and positively impacted others.
● An older adult reflects on their life and witnesses the undeniable growth they have
experienced, they are overwhelmed with a sensation of accomplishment and bliss.
● A senior citizen looks back on their life with fondness, they can’t help but feel grateful for the
hardships and proud of all their accomplishments. Their reflection is filled with humility and
grace, as these experiences have shaped them into who they are today.
● Even though their mental faculties may be waning, a person with dementia can still remain
connected to the world and savor moments of joy, love, and appreciation while reflecting on
their life.
● An elderly person who did not connect with their family members during their years can now
look back on that period with regret and a wish for a second chance. Such a person develops a
sense of despair from not achieving the fulfillment they had hoped for.
● An individual who has experienced significant loss and adversity in their life but has found a
way to integrate those experiences into a sense of wisdom and acceptance.
● As senior citizens are nearing the end of their lives, they find comfort in looking at photos and
memories of the people they love. In addition, they can take pride in their accomplishments
and their impact on others.
● A person who has been unsuccessful in their career may feel a deep sense of guilt or
inadequacy as they or reflect on their life. If they cannot accept their shortcomings and find
positive points, they may remain in despair.
● An elderly person who actively seeks to pass on their knowledge and wisdom to younger
generations, recognizing the importance of legacy and continuity.
● Someone who has lost their physical or mental abilities and cannot do the things they used to
enjoy may feel a sense of despair since they no longer feel capable or valuable.
Factors Causing Individuals To Succeed At Integrity Vs Despair Stage

● Healthy Relationships: Having supportive relationships with family, friends, and community
can provide a sense of purpose, belonging, and fulfillment in later life. If individuals have
built and maintained good relationships throughout their lives, they will be more likely to
enter the integrity vs despair stage with a feeling of satisfaction.
● Meaningful Work: Engaging in meaningful work or hobbies can provide seniors with a
sense of accomplishment and pride. Whether they are retired or still working, finding
opportunities to improve the world can foster feelings of satisfaction and success.
● Forgiveness: Letting go of past grievances and forgiving oneself and others can lead to a
greater sense of peace and integrity. Being able to accept one’s own mistakes and having the
strength to forgive others will provide a feeling of unity and completion.
● Contributions to Society: Becoming involved in community activities, giving back to others,
and making a lasting impact on society can create positive meaning in later life. Knowing that
one has left the world in a better state than it was before brings a feeling of pride and purpose.
● Positive Attitude: Adopting a positive attitude towards life and viewing it as an opportunity
to learn and grow can lead to a sense of happiness and success. Keeping an open mind,
accepting the present moment, and looking forward to the future can provide a feeling of
satisfaction and completion in later life.

Factors Causing Individuals To Fail At Integrity Vs Despair Stage

● Lack of Meaningful Relationships and Accomplishment: Individuals who have not

established meaningful relationships or achieved personal accomplishments may struggle
with feelings of worthlessness and find it difficult to reflect positively on their lives.
● Illness or Disability: Physical or mental health conditions can limit an individual’s ability to
engage in activities that promote a sense of purpose or connection, which can lead to feelings
of despair.
● Isolation: Being isolated from family and friends can lead to feelings of loneliness and
hopelessness, hindering an individual’s ability to reflect positively on their life.
● Mental Health Issues: When experiencing mental health difficulties, such as depression or
anxiety, it may be hard to view one’s life in a constructive light and create an internal sense of
integrity.
● Difficulty with Self-Awareness: People who battle inner reflection may struggle to recognize
their successes, define their values and build a sense of self-integrity. If individuals are unable
to gain insight into their lives, it will be hard to look back on life and feel satisfied.
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Psychology. https://practicalpie.com/integrity-vs-despair/
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(Erikson’s 8th Stage) (2024). Helpful Professor. https://helpfulprofessor.com/integrity-vs-

despair-examples/

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https://www.verywellmind.com/erik-eriksons-stages-of-psychosocial-development-2795740

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https://www.structural-learning.com/post/eriksons-psychosocial-development-stages