Child and Adolescent Development: Stages and Challenges
Confidence vs. Mistrust (Birth to 1 or 2 Years)
If the child’s basic needs, such as food and care, are met appropriately during this stage, they develop self-assurance. However, if these needs are not consistently met, the child may grow unsure of whether or not to trust others.
Autonomy vs. Shame (1.5 to 3 or 4 Years)
If the child receives appropriate care from their parents, they acquire self-control and are proud of their actions. Those who successfully pass this stage are more independent and have initiative, even if they do not fully control their will.
Stage of Tantrums and Tears
If the child is not given options on minimal things that they can decide (such as choosing a pair of shoes), they may become frustrated and ashamed, hindering the proper development of their character and will.
Initiative vs. Guilt (3.5 to 4 Years Until Primary School)
This is the age of the game: the child learns to share with others, develop their imagination and fantasy play, follow rules, and take the lead when playing with others.
If the child is frustrated in their games and activities at this stage, they may feel guilty, become afraid, and be unable to take the initiative. They may also struggle to develop their imagination and become overly dependent on their parents.
Competence vs. Inferiority (School Age to 14 Years)
The child learns the basics of life to become a functional and competent adult. They start to build relationships with their friends and follow the social norms of this age. They continue playing and learn to play together and participate in sports. They understand that they must learn certain academic skills, such as social studies, develop their cognitive skills, and show an interest in reading. They develop self-discipline, good behavior, become more sociable, and abide by rules.
If the child has not successfully navigated the previous stages, they may feel uncertain about their future, develop an inferiority complex, and be filled with guilt and shame for being and acting differently.
Identity vs. Confusion (13 or 14 to 20 Years)
If your teen has passed the other phases without frustrations, they will have learned how to accept themselves as individuals. However, more mature teens may experience confusion about their identity, rebel, and potentially engage in problematic behaviors such as crime. This stage also involves developing an awareness of right and wrong and adopting appropriate social behavior. They may be inspired by someone they admire to become a successful adult. They may try different looks until they find an environment where they feel comfortable.
If they cannot find their identity at this stage, they may become a person who breaks the rules of society, has a weak character, and exhibits antisocial behavior.
Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young Adults)
The success of the young adult lies in experiencing intimacy with their partner and developing a genuine and authentic relationship, which will lead to a happy marriage.
Generativity vs. Stagnation (Adults)
The individual’s social development focuses on their generosity as a spouse and parent. The individual develops a sense of working productively for the effective development of their family.
Integrity vs. Despair (Mature Adults)
If earlier psychosocial crises have been resolved successfully, the mature adult develops a maximum degree of maturity, independence, and confidence. They take on an acceptable role in their life, wanting to develop as individuals, and are proud of their children, employment, profession, and hobbies.
If one or more of the above steps were not resolved effectively, the mature adult may view their life with frustration and disgust at what they have achieved. This is a stage of review for the individual.