c virtue associated with the psychosocial issue at that particular stage of development.
The eight psychosocial states described by Erikson (1950, 1964, 1973, 1985) can be delineated as follows:
(1) Psychosocial Crisis 1: Autonomy versus Shame and Doubt (Birth to 12-18 months).
At this first stage, an infant comes to sense whether the world is or is not a good place for people and whether the people and things in it can be relied upon. Psychological health requires that the infant achieve a proper balance of trust (which allows for intimacy) and mistrust (which permits protection). Trust should predominate if the crisis is successfully resolved and if it does, the person will develop what Erikson calls the "virtue of hope" or the belief that one's needs will be met and his/her wishes can be attained. On the other hand, if mistrust predominates, the person will view the world as unfriendly and unpredictable. There can be strong feelings of disappointment and trouble forming close relationships.
(2) Psychosocial Crisis 2: Autonomy versus Shame and Doubt (12-18 months to three years).
During the third year, a child makes a push toward autonomy (independence or self-determination). for example, toddlers will attempt to do most everything more themselves at this time--walk, dress, eat, etc.). They are attempting to expand the boundaries of their world.
If the crisis is successfully resolved, the virtue of will emerges which is to say that children learn how to make their own decisions and trust their own judgement. It is the beginning of the development of self-regulation and self-control.
Although the sense of autonomy needs to predominate, children are said to also need some shame and doubt. Unlimited liberty is unhealthy for both themselves and others. Also, shame helps them to live by reasonable rules.
(3) Psychosocial Crisis 3: Initiative versus guild (Three to six years).
The issues of trust (in...