Stages of human development

¶ … humans experience several stages of development throughout the lifespan. Nearly all recognize clear differences between an infant, toddler, adolescent, and adult. Although many, throughout history and the world, allege theories of human development, this phenomenon currently falls mainly within the realm of psychology. Not surprisingly, there exist many psychological theories of development, each with defining and respectable characteristics. However, two of the most well-known are those of Erik Erikson and Lawrence Kohlberg. While a cursory discussion of their complete theories of development is necessary for contextual purposes, of particular interest are their concepts regarding early adolescence.

Erikson stated that humans develop through progressive psychosocial stages. Furthermore, he contended that each stage involves a conflict that one must resolve in order to proceed to the next level. In infancy, humans experience the trust vs. mistrust stage, during which time they form lasting impressions about the world; this naturally takes place through their closest relationships. During the autonomy vs. shame and doubt stage, the degree to which parents encourage their toddlers' emerging mobility and independence determines the level of confidence the latter possess. Preschoolers then enter the initiative vs. guilt stage wherein, if successful, they develop a sense of purpose. During the industry vs. inferiority stage, school age children increasingly master novel tasks and skills, thereby developing a feeling of competence. In adolescence, individuals experience the identity cohesion vs. role confusion stage, during which time children fashion their identity. As the name implies, the stage of intimacy vs. isolation requires young adults to develop intimate relationships. Mature adults face the generativity vs. stagnation dilemma, which means they feel compelled to guide the next generation. Finally, the ego integrity vs. despair stage occurs during old age and involves an examination and evaluation of one's life experiences.

Similar to Erikson's notion that human development unfolds in stages, Kohlberg theorized that human beings pass through six moral phases set in three levels. Pre-conventional morality consists of two stages. The first deals with one's adherence to authority; initially, children are obedient mainly because they do not want to be punished. During the second stage, dubbed individualism and exchange, humans realize there are various viewpoints and as such, numerous outcomes to situations. Level two, conventional morality, also consists of two stages. In the first, which mainly deals with notions of good and bad, adolescents are acutely aware of alternative perspectives and behaviors in the world. Furthermore, they believe individuals should behave in socially sanctioned ways. The second stage revolves around maintaining law and order. Kohlberg claimed that some people do not reach the post-conventional level. It is broken into two stages, the first concerning itself with a theoretical examination of the perpetuation of society. During the last stage, adults develop universal principles to which they adhere.

A particularly interesting and challenging period of life is adolescence. It is a phase during which most individuals significantly alter their perspectives, behaviors, and goals. Consider the case of Philip. Similar to most budding adolescents, thirteen-year-old Philip has begun to dispute his parents' principles. In their stead, he is cultivating a self-generated set of ideals and beliefs. This situation is common to children Philip's age. Although his parents may find this phase difficult to manage and Philip may experience bouts of confusion, it is nonetheless a normal and healthy stage of development. In fact, many would agree that Philip and must pass through this period in order to develop into a functioning adult.

The question inevitably arises as to why Philip and his adolescent counterparts experience a rejection of parental values. According to Erikson's theory, Philip is now quite cognizant of alternative viewpoints and behaviors; he is mature enough to examine and evaluate differing principles, attitudes, conduct, etc. This logically leads him to analyze his parents' values. In doing so, Philip questions his previously accepted belief system. What's more, Philip is searching for his own identity and self-image. By nature, this task necessitates distance, at least to some degree, from his parents. However, this newly created void must be filled with something else. That is why many teens adopt their peer group's values, behaviors, and goals. Faced with multiple choices that at times may appear overwhelming, it seems unsurprising that Philip will experience moments of confusion and anxiety. However, this is to be expected and accepted as it indicates a healthy developmental process. Therefore, Erikson would state Philip's identity formation, albeit tumultuous at times, is in line with the natural course of human development.