For a long time, researchers have been examining human behavior and the factors that affect it. The theories they have developed can also be used to study aspects such as cognition and socio-emotional development. Thus, after analyzing several theoretical approaches, I came to the conclusion that the most suitable is the theory of Eric Erickson. It is based on determining the main stages of an individual’s development, and best explains my development thus far.
Before proceeding to substantiate the choice of theory, it is necessary to gain an understanding of what it is based on. Therefore, Erickson identified several stages of human development that are formed under the influence of specific struggles characteristic of each period (Santrock, 2018). For example, “infancy – basic trust versus mistrust” and “adolescence – identity versus identity confusion” (WebMD Editorial Contributors, 2021, para. 3). Hence, for this stage of personality development, intimacy versus isolation becomes the most characteristic difficulty.
I consider Erickson’s theory as the most suitable for describing my development as a person. This is due to the fact that it provides a description of the primary motivators for the formation of the psychological and social side. Thus, at this stage of young adulthood, the central area of confusion is intimacy and isolation, which are reflected in such aspects as relationships with others. Intimacy is built with some people, and isolation develops with those whom a person dislikes.
In conclusion, the study of theories of human development during lifespan provides valuable insight into the understanding of the main factors affecting this process. Among the many theoretical approaches, the theory of Eric Erickson turned out to be the most suitable. It provides a division of people’s lives into several stages, each of which has specific struggles. The application of these aspects to personal development provides an understanding of the social and psychological characteristics of individuals.
References
Santrock, L. (2018). Life-span development. McGraw Hill.
WebMD Editorial Contributors. (2021). What to know about Erikson’s 8 stages of development. WebMD.