Erik Erikson\'s theory of psychosocial development states that humans go through
ID: 3443677 • Letter: E
Question
Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development states that humans go through several stages, which require resolution of an interpersonal conflict. How, if at all, do these stages apply to our relationship with God? Is there an overlap between Erikson's stages and how we progress, or stay stuck, in our relationship with Christ? Please offer at least two stages, and discuss whether or not these stages can be applied to our relationship with God. If so, also offer personal reflections on why this is so. If not, why not? What better accounts for our relationship with God?
Explanation / Answer
Erik Erikson's 8 stages of psychosocial development is one of the many development theories. The last two stages, in my opinion are related to God and his work. Generativity Vs Stagnation and Ego Integrity Vs despair are the two stages, I think are related to God.
is about creating something new such as children or something creative at work. One of God's primary job is to create life, so if all the other 6 stages are successfully accomplished, the person is getting closer to the tasks of God.
Ego integrity is about attaining the highest level of wisdom and becoming God himself. This could also be seen in Maslow's final stage of self - actualisation where the person satisfies all the other four stages and become wise in knowing oneself. When one knows oneself, they get closer to God and they become God. That's why people in their old age call upon God most of the time and read about afterlife and dying peacefully.
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