Why were some age groups easier to describe than others? What similarities and differences exist in each age group? Are there words you would associate with ONLY one particular age group and not another? Why?

Life-span developmental psychology involves the study of constancy and change in behavior throughout the life course. Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory of development expands upon Freud's views and is the first to cover the entire lifespan. Unlike Freud, Erikson pointed out that normal development must be understood about the cultural context in which it occurs. According to Erikson, everyone must pass through these eight stages.

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To begin your exploration of lifespan development, complete the knowledge check of Developmental Theory.

Next, consider Erikson's eight psychosocial stages of life, which are commonly accepted as basic life stages. They are:

Birth – 1 Year 1 – 3 Years 3 – 5 Years 6 – 12 Years 13 – 19 Years 20 – 24 Years 25 – 64 Years 65 Years to Death
Birth – 1 Year 1 – 3 Years 3 – 5 Years 6 – 12 Years 13 – 19 Years 20 – 24 Years 25 – 64 Years 65 Years to Death
Trust vs. Mistrust Autonomy vs. Shame & Doubt Initiative vs. Guilt Industry vs. Inferiority Role Identity vs. Role Confusion Intimacy vs. Isolation Generativity vs. Stagnation Ego Integrity vs. Despair
Now, think of someone you know at that age, and think of three words or phrases that come to mind when thinking of that person/age. Note which age group was easiest to find words to describe and the age group that was hardest to think of words to describe.

Review and respond to the following questions:

Why were some age groups easier to describe than others?
What similarities and differences exist in each age group?
Are there words you would associate with ONLY one particular age group and not another? Why?
Was gender an issue for any age group?
Would you adjust the age range for any of these groups? Why?

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