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Family:

 He met a Canadian dance instructor named Joan Serson who was also teaching at the school where he
worked, they remained together until his death. The Eriksons had four children in their marriage: three
sons, Kai T., Jon MacDonald, Neil-who had down syndrome- and daughter, Sue Bloland (Cherry, 2017).

Death:

 Erikson died on May 12, 1994 in Harwich, Massachusetts. He and his wife are buried in the First
Congregational Church Cemetery in Harwich (Boeree, G. C. 1997).

Erikson’s theory was largely affected by psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud's work; however, his theory
focused on psychosocial development rather than psychosexual development. Erikson accepted the basic
belief of Freudian theory; their notions on this topic had glaring differences, though. Erikson was
convinced that Freud had incorrectly judged certain crucial attributes of human development: Erikson
said that humans develop throughout their lifespan, while Freud said that our personality is shaped by the
age of five.

His theory explains different traits and skills which humans develop throughout their lifespan. Each stage
of development forms on the earlier stages and sets the path for following periods of development. The
first stage of development begins to explain the importance of trust vs. mistrust and he further mentions
that mistrust is not all bad; it is necessary to learn to discern people and their true character. He
emphasizes the importance of the role of parents and caregivers, warns that mistrust can prevail over
trust; subsequently, this may lead the child devoid of self-confidence, among other things. The second
stage of development focuses on the independence of the child and the consequences the child could
face if they are unable to conquer this stage. During this stage, the child acquires basic skills of self-control
and sense of independence. This is probably the defining stage for the child; they encounter failures and
inconsistencies which may lead to shame and self-doubt. The third stage of development encourages
parents to be consistent in helping the child by reinforcing the sense of independence and investigation;
so that the child can develop initiative because if parents are protective; the child will develop a sense of
guilt.

Erikson’s initial stage: Trust vs. Mistrust (0-12-18 months old)

Erikson thought that an infant whose immediate needs are met; such as being comforted when comfort is
needed, fed when hungry etc., will develop trust. He also said; in order to learn to discriminate between
people who are either honest or dishonest, mistrust is necessary. If Mistrust prevails over Trust, at this
stage, the child will likely become withdrawn, suspicious and devoid of self-belief (Sharkey, May 1997).

Erikson’s second stage: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (18 months-3 years old)

 By creating a supportive atmosphere in which the child is free to explore and manipulate their
environment; the parents and caregiver(s) can assist the child to develop a sense of autonomy or
independence. Erikson believed that when the child learns to control their bodily functions, this will lead
the child to a feeling of control and a sense of self-reliance. A child that successfully overcomes this stage

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