Which theorist is known for psychosocial development across eight stages of life?

• A. Sigmund Freud
• B. Carl Jung
• C. Jean Piaget
• D. Erik Erikson

Answer: (D)

Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development spans eight stages across the lifespan, with each stage presenting a central crisis that shapes personality. From trust versus mistrust in infancy to integrity versus despair in old age, the framework emphasizes how social relationships and cultural context influence growth at every life phase. This lifespan lens distinguishes Erikson from Freud's psychosexual focus and from Piaget's cognitive stages or Jung's analytic theory. Resolving each stage's crisis tends to build enduring strengths—such as hope, will, purpose, competence, fidelity, love, care, and wisdom—while unresolved conflicts can shape challenges later in life.