By Jennifer Morrison, PsyD.
Throughout the course of our lifetime, there are a number of psychological hurdles that we have to overcome in order to continue to grow along the path of psychological development. There are several different age groups, and with each group comes a unique developmental task the person must grapple with in order to continue to grow psychologically. Without accomplishing the developmental task, a person can remain stuck and continue to struggle both with their self-identity and in their relationships. This article was influenced by Erikson’s psychosocial stages of development.
At age six until age 12, children are transitioning into the school age. Erikson focused psychological development at this point on competence. During this stage, we are learning many new skills and gaining significant knowledge. This is a very social period of developmental, and if we do not learn how to be competent, we experience ourselves as less than our peers. If the child is encouraged, they begin to feel confident in their ability to accomplish goals. If competence is not gained, the child can feel inadequate and develop low self-esteem. During this time, the individual begins to place significance on relationships at school and in the neighborhood. Teachers take on a special role during development at this stage as they teach specific skills.
Around age 12 until age 18, the individual enters a period of time known as adolescence. This period is unique as the adolescent’s development becomes more than what happens to them and now depends primarily on what the individual does. The most important task of adolescence is finding one’s identity while navigating social interactions. During this time, the individual has to balance desires to “fit in” with developing a sense of right and wrong. If successful, the individual grows into the various roles they will occupy as an adult. When identity is not adequately developed, the adolescent may attempt to delay becoming an adult and experience confusion about who they are and their role in the world. This is a time period of development where the individual develops strong relationships with peers as well as passions, ideals, and causes.
For more information, please refer to Erikson’s Youth: Change and Challenge or if you are concerned about your child’s psychological development contact a mental health professional. This article is the second in a series of psychological development across the lifespan.
Since 1974, John R. Day & Associates, Christian Psychological Associates provides quality care for the whole person. They work with area physicians, attorneys, court services, and pastors to bring healing to the lives of children, adolescents, and adults. They have six locations throughout Central Illinois: Peoria, Normal, Eureka, Princeton, Canton, and Pekin. They can be reached at 309-692-7755 or by visiting
www.christianpsychological.org.