ADULT THEORIES
ERIKSON’S THEORY
Erikson’s theory is based on his clinical observations and theoretical psychology. However, this theory contains the most comprehensive explanation of adulthood ever put forward. The reason for this is that it connects with all kinds of development that a person shows throughout his life. The stages of this theory related to adulthood are as follows:
- Isolation VS. PRIVACY: It is a stage seen in young adulthood. Sexual intimacy that begins in adolescence takes the form of developing truly close and intimate relationships during this period. In adolescence, the individual tries to get to know himself through romantic relationships. Thus, the individual will be sure of his own identity and will solve the identity confusion problem. Otherwise, he will feel isolated, alone and isolated.
- PRODUCTIVITY VS. STABILITY:It is a stage seen in middle age. This period, from young adulthood to old age, may be the longest. In this phase, which includes all productivity, the individual should engage in some activities to guide and help younger people. Thus, it provides a sense of fulfillment in life. Otherwise, the person feels stagnant, bored, unproductive and worthless.
- INTEGRITY VS DEPENDENCE: It is a stage seen in old age or later in adulthood. In this stage, the individual experiences the feeling that his days are limited and that he is approaching death. This leads the individual to evaluate his life and what he has achieved over time and reach a conclusion about whether it makes sense for him or not. If it gets a positive result, then it’s a wholeness; if he gets a negative result, he feels hopelessness and helplessness. The success of the person in the previous stages and helps to overcome this depression more easily.
