Culture and the Self: Understanding Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development

Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development is focused on: * The relationship between culture and society and the conflicts that occur within the ego * The need for a learner to feel safe and secure before learning can occur * Bandura’s theories of social development * The social nature of learning and the Zone of Proximal Development in learners

* The relationship between culture and society and the conflicts that occur within the ego

Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development is focused on the relationship between culture and society and the conflicts that occur within the ego. Erikson believed that throughout life, individuals face a series of psychosocial crises or conflicts between the demands of culture and society and the needs of the individual. These crises, which occur at different stages of development, are resolved through the development of the ego, the sense of self that governs an individual’s thoughts, actions, and interactions with others.

Erikson’s theory emphasizes the importance of the social and cultural context in shaping an individual’s development. According to Erikson, the way an individual resolves each crisis depends on their cultural background, familial and societal values, and the specific challenges they face during the particular stage of development. For example, an adolescent from a collectivistic culture might struggle with developing a sense of identity that is separate from the expectations of their family and community, while an adolescent from an individualistic culture might struggle with establishing their independence from their parents and carving out their own identity.

In summary, Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development is focused on how cultural and societal demands interact with an individual’s needs and desires to shape their sense of self and development throughout the lifespan.

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