Define theory of personality given by Erik Erikson.

Erik Erikson, a renowned psychoanalyst and developmental psychologist, proposed a comprehensive theory of personality that emphasizes the psychosocial stages individuals go through across their lifespan. Erikson's theory consists of eight stages, each associated with a specific psychosocial crisis that individuals must successfully navigate to achieve healthy personality development.

According to Erikson, the stages are as follows:

1. Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy):

   • The first stage centers around the development of basic trust in infancy. The primary caregiver's consistent and responsive care establishes a sense of trust, forming the foundation for future relationships.

2. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (Toddlerhood):

   • Toddlers seek autonomy and self-control. Successful navigation of this stage results in a sense of autonomy, while negative experiences may lead to feelings of shame and doubt.

3. Initiative vs. Guilt (Preschool):

   • Preschoolers explore and initiate activities. Positive experiences foster a sense of initiative, while guilt may arise if their attempts are met with disapproval.

4. Industry vs. Inferiority (Elementary School):

   • Children develop a sense of competence and industry through mastering skills and tasks. Feelings of inferiority may emerge if they perceive their efforts as inadequate.

5. Identity vs. Role Confusion (Adolescence):

   • Adolescents explore and solidify their identities, forming a cohesive sense of self. Failure to establish identity can result in role confusion and uncertainty about one's place in society.

6. Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young Adulthood):

   • Young adults seek meaningful relationships and intimate connections. Successful navigation leads to the capacity for genuine intimacy, while failure may result in isolation.

7. Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle Adulthood):

   • Middle-aged individuals focus on contributing to society and the next generation. Generativity involves nurturing and guiding others, while stagnation reflects a lack of meaningful contribution.

8. Integrity vs. Despair (Late Adulthood):

   • In the final stage, individuals reflect on their lives. A sense of integrity is achieved by accepting life's successes and failures, while despair may arise from unmet goals and regrets.

Erikson's theory emphasizes the importance of resolving each psychosocial crisis for healthy personality development and underscores the ongoing nature of personal growth throughout the lifespan.