Developmental Psychology
Developmental psychology is the study of how individuals change and grow over the course of their lives, encompassing physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. It investigates the processes and stages of development from infancy through old age, exploring how people acquire and refine skills, knowledge, and behaviors at different life stages. This field provides insights into the various factors that influence development, including genetic, environmental, and social influences, helping to understand how people adapt and evolve throughout their lifespan.
Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development (Erikson's eight stages of development)
Erikson proposed eight stages of psychosocial development where each stage involves a clash between opposing forces: a harmonious element (syntonic) and a disruptive element (dystonic). This conflict results in the development of ego qualities or strengths, which he described as basic strength. Insufficient development of these strengths at any stage can lead to core pathology specific to that stage. Erikson emphasized that earlier life experiences do not solely determine later personality development.
