Development

Episode 21: Erikson’s Eight Stages of Life

Erik Erikson’s Eight Stages of Life

Understanding Erikson’s Stages

Are you curious about Erik Erikson’s eight stages of life? This episode provides a detailed walkthrough. We delve into each stage, offering illustrative examples. From childhood to adolescence, and then into mid-life, we cover it all. Furthermore, we highlight two captivating voices of men approaching life’s end: John Wayne and Roy. Their contrasting viewpoints shed light on the depth of human experience.

Shakespeare’s Take on Life’s Stages

Interestingly, Shakespeare too touched upon the life stages. In his “All the World’s A Stage” speech from “As You Like It”, he crafts a vivid picture. He writes, “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” They make their entrances and exits, playing diverse roles. Initially, we see an infant, helpless and dependent. Then, a schoolboy emerges, dragging his feet to school. Love soon follows, marked by deep sighs and serenades. Later, we see a soldier, brave yet rash. Afterward, the justice phase arises, characterized by wisdom. The progression continues, leading to an elderly figure, symbolizing the inevitable decay. Finally, the cycle concludes with a return to childlike dependence, capturing life’s ephemeral nature.

Connecting to Contemporary Voices

For those seeking more firsthand stories, StoryCorps offers a treasure trove. Here, you can find intriguing interviews with people from diverse age brackets. Additionally, for fans of John Wayne, a unique original recording awaits you at Archive.org.

Conclusion

In essence, Erikson’s eight stages beautifully encapsulate the human journey. Paired with Shakespeare’s poetic rendition, it offers profound insights. So, whether you’re exploring psychology or simply intrigued by the journey of life, these stages provide a valuable lens. Dive in, reflect, and understand the intricate dance of human development.

    • Click here to go to StoryCorps where you’ll find lots of interesting interviews with regular folks of all ages.
    • Click here to go to the page on Archive.org where you can hear the original recording of John Wayne.
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Michael

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6 Comments

  1. Avatar

    Miledi Adams

    July 9, 2007

    I am in a Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership and i listened to this video in an effort to help me review the stages in life. I absolutely love this video as it goes thru specific areas we go thru. Erikson’s stages of life is just amazing to share with students of the various age groups even with young adults who are searching for a meaning and guidance. Just love this video!!!

    Thank You!!!

  2. Erickson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development – Living for the Future

    July 9, 2007

    […] October 9, 2016 livingforthefutureblog Episode 21: Erikson’s Eight Stages of Life […]

  3. Dementia: When "Living in the Moment" is Not A Good Thing | The Psych Files

    July 9, 2007

    […] several times including this episode where I interview him since he is in the final stage of Erikson’s Eight Stages of PsychoSocial Development. Like many people her age my mother suffers from dementia which means that while her long term […]

  4. Avatar

    Eileen

    July 9, 2007

    Thank you for your work.

  5. Avatar

    MARTIN

    July 9, 2007

    age is a funny thing looks like we are more optermistic when we’re younger and slowly we realize we cant be rockkstars and eventualy our options run out as we age

  6. appsych » Blog Archive » *Flex: Psych Panel

    July 9, 2007

    […] “the psych files: Erikson’s stages” […]

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