Erikson's Theory of Psychosocial Development

Abstract

This article demonstrates that contrary to some people's belief that Erikson is passe, Erikson is very much in fashion. It does so by providing an up-to-date, panoramic picture of the scholarship founded on Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development. It begins with a succinct introduction of the principal tenets of Erikson's theory and those of the most widely studied construct rooted in Erikson's theory – that of identity status proposed by James Marcia. Following this, are a critical analysis of the major critiques on Erikson's theory and a synthetic review of the chief efforts to improve the theory. The third part highlights empirical evidence supporting the validity of the Eriksonian stages and that of identity statuses. Finally, taking a firm stand on the recurrent, long-standing controversial issues over Erikson's theory, the article draws three conclusions – that Erikson's theory is highly relevant today and perhaps will be for a long time into the future; that it concerns both self and society; and that it applies to both genders. It is further contended that despite its limitations, the Eriksonian literature has practical implications for education and beyond.