It is important for the child at this stage to discover pleasure in being productive and the need to succeed, without being pushed too hard and still being allowed to be children. The child's relationship with friends in school and the neighbourhood are become increasingly important. If a good balance between industry and inferiority is achieved the virtue of (competency) is developed.
MALADAPTATIONS AND MALIGNANCIES.
If a child is allowed too little success i.e. because of harsh teachers or friends rejecting them, they can develop a sense of inferiority or incompetence. If pushed to hard in one area by parents without being able to explore other interests they can develop (Narrow virtuosity) i.e. children who have no other life except in what the are good at like child actors, musicians etc. More commonly (Inertia) can develop, if a child has felt humiliated doing something at school or infront of friends they decide not to try it again, carrying on to developing an inferiority complex.
STAGE V.
(12-18 years aprox).
Adolescence .
CONFLICT - Identity v.'s Role confusion.
IMPORTANT EVENT/INFUENCE - Peer relationships/Role models. PSYCHOSOCIAL VIRTUES - Fidelity, Loyalty.
At this stage, adolescents need to find an identity that they can carry on to adulthood. Adolescents need to find out who they are as an individual. Erikson says the solving earlier conflicts now now form a basis in the search for their own identity. If they overcome earlier conflicts, they are prepared to search for identity. If they developed a sense of trust and industry, they are able to believe in themselves and their abilities. If this stage is passed successfully you have found your identity, can accept society and your friends with all their faults, you will have the virtue of (Fidelity) which means (Loyalty).
MALADAPTATIONS AND MALIGNANCIES.
If the adolescent can not make deliberate decisions and choices, especially about vocation, sexual orientation, and life in general, role confusion becomes a threat.
