adulthood, is integrity versus despair (Christiansen & Palkovitz, 1998; Erikson, 1968).
During the young adult stage an individual fulfils the need for intimacy through their ability to relate to another human being on a deep and personal level. This requires a commitment to a relationship and without this ability the individual may retreat into isolation. Sexual relationships do not by themselves indicate intimacy since sexual intimacy can take place without commitment or openness with another. Following this stage, the individual must conquer generativity, which includes a concern for the establishment and guidance of the next generation, usually expressed through parenting. Following this the individual must develop a sense of integrity which means that they must learn to fully accept the self and come to terms with the death. This includes achieving satisfaction and acceptance with the self, without which the ind
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