THEORIES OF DEVELOPMENT

Erikson And Freud’s theories of

development

Lecture 2:

By: Rabbia Saeed

Theories of Development
In psychology, theories of development refer to organized
sets of principles or frameworks that aim to explain how
and why individuals change and grow over time. These
theories are crucial for understanding the various aspects
of human development, including physical, cognitive,
emotional, and social changes that occur from infancy to
old age.
There are several prominent theories of
development in psychology, and they often focus
on different aspects or stages of the lifespan. Some
well-known theories include:
• Freud’s Theory of Development
• Erikson’s Theory of Development
• Piaget’s Theory of Development
• Vygotsky’s Theory of Development
Freud Stages of Development

Freud's theory suggests that human development occurs in distinct

stages, each characterized by a focus on different erogenous zones
and the resolution of specific conflicts. The stages span from
infancy to adolescence and influence personality development.
There are 5 psychosexual stages of development
1: Oral Stage (Birth to 1 year)

The primary focus is on the mouth as an erogenous zone.

Infants derive pleasure from oral activities like sucking,

biting, and tasting.

The main conflict is the weaning process, and successful

resolution leads to the development of trust and optimism.
2: Anal Stage (1 to 3 years)

The anus becomes the

The major conflict involves
primary erogenous zone as
toilet training, and successful
toddlers gain pleasure from
resolution results in a sense
bowel and bladder
of autonomy and self-control.
elimination.
 The genitals become the center of pleasure.

3:Phallic
The Oedipus complex (for boys) and Electra complex (for

Stage (3 girls) emerge, involving unconscious sexual desires for the

opposite-sex parent and rivalry with the same-sex parent.

to 6 years)
Successful resolution involves identification with the same-sex
parent and the development of the superego (conscience).
 Sexual feelings are repressed, and children
focus on developing social and intellectual
skills.

Latency Stage
(6 to puberty)
This stage is marked by the consolidation
of relationships with peers and the
development of interests and hobbies.
 The onset of puberty reawakens sexual
interests and desires.

Genital Stage Individuals seek mature, adult sexual

relationships and form intimate
connections.
(Puberty
onward) The resolution of conflicts in previous
stages influences the individual's ability
to form healthy relationships.
Freud’s
https://youtu.be /ESN3qjeei2w?
Psychosexual si=NSiFH8PPDHu7Zgxu

stages
Erikson’s Theory of Development

Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development

provides a comprehensive framework for understanding
the psychological and social challenges that individuals
face across the lifespan. In his theory, Erikson identified
eight stages, each associated with a specific psychosocial
crisis that individuals must navigate. These stages span
from infancy to late adulthood, and successful resolution
of each crisis contributes to healthy development.
 Stages Of development

• Infants develop a sense of trust when

Trust vs. Mistrust caregivers consistently meet their needs.
(Infancy, 0-1 • Mistrust can arise if needs are not
year): consistently met, leading to anxiety and
insecurity.

• Toddlers strive for independence and

Autonomy vs. autonomy.
Shame and Doubt • Excessive criticism or restriction can
(Toddlerhood, 1-3 result in feelings of shame and
years): doubt.
3. Initiative vs. Guilt (Preschool, 3-6 years):

1. Preschoolers explore their environment and take on

more responsibility.

2. Overly harsh criticism can lead to a sense of guilt

about taking initiative.

4. Industry vs. Inferiority (Elementary School, 6-12

years):

3. Children develop a sense of competence through

mastering tasks.

4. Feelings of inadequacy and inferiority may arise if

they perceive themselves as incompetent.
5. Identity vs. • Teens explore their identity, values, and life
Role Confusion goals.
• Identity confusion may occur if adolescents
(Adolescence,
struggle to form a clear sense of self.
12-18 years):

6. Intimacy vs. • Young adults seek meaningful relationships

Isolation (Young and intimacy.
• Fear of commitment or unsuccessful
Adulthood, 18-
relationships may lead to feelings of isolation.
40 years):
7. Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle Adulthood, 40-65 years):
• Adults focus on contributing to society, often through work and family.
• A lack of accomplishment and contribution can result in a sense of stagnation.

8. Integrity vs. Despair (Late Adulthood, 65+ years):

• Older adults reflect on their lives and experiences.
• A sense of integrity and fulfillment may result from a life well-lived, while despair may
arise from regrets and unmet goals.
ERIKSON’S
STAGES OF
DEVELOPMENT
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Assignment for next class:

"Compare and contrast Freud's

psychosexual development theory with
Erikson's psychosocial development
theory. Additionally, discuss any criticisms
or limitations associated with both
theories."