Erikson also believed that the adolescent period is a crucial stage to develop an individual’s identity, which needs a great amount of emphasis. The theory follows the epigenic principle, which is the principle for psychosocial development, based on a biological model, in which parts emerge in order of increasing differentiation (Cloninger, 2012). According to Erikson, completion of each stage results in a healthy personality (McLeod, 2013). Erikson assumes that a crisis can occur at each stage of development. However, if an individual fails to complete a stage it can result in a reduced ability to complete further stages and develop an unhealthy personality (McLeod, …show more content…
shame and doubt (18 months to 3 years of age). Children discover that they can acquire many abilities (e.g. putting on shoes), demonstrating independence and autonomy. To master this stage, a parent must be patient with their child and let them explore the limits of their abilities while also being encouraging (McLeod, 2013). Failure to complete this stage will develop a sense of shame and feel insufficient in their ability to survive since they are not given the opportunity to become independent. Relating this stage to my own life, I have discovered that I have not fully mastered this stage. I did live in dormitory during my time at Pace University, which demonstrates me being independent. However, I noticed that I do experience shame and feeling