Erikson's Stages Of Psychosocial Development Quiz

Reviewed by Jennifer DeSetto
Jennifer DeSetto, MSN (Mental Health) |
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Review Board Member
Jennifer DeSetto is an ANCC board-certified PMHNP with a decade of experience in mental health. She earned her MSN in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing from Molloy University and holds a certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She excels in medication management and evidence-based practices, having worked in private practice, community mental health centers, and inpatient settings.
 , MSN (Mental Health)
By Kristie Shipley
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  • 1/15 Questions

    What is Erikson's infancy to birth stage called?

    • Initiative vs. Guilt
    • Trust vs. Freightened
    • Trust vs. Mistrust
    • Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt
    • Naked baby vs. Clothed baby
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About This Quiz


This quiz on Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development offers an engaging way to explore one of psychology’s foundational theories. Erik Erikson’s model identifies eight stages, each representing a critical period in life where individuals face psychosocial challenges. These stages range from developing trust in infancy to achieving integrity in later adulthood.

Through the Erikson stages of development quiz, you will test your understanding of the unique conflicts and resolutions that define human growth and development. This is ideal for assessing your grasp of Erikson’s influential theory. Challenge yourself to apply your knowledge of the stages to real-life scenarios and deepen your appreciation for the psychological aspects of human development.

Eriksons Stages Of Psychosocial Development Quiz - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    In the identity vs. role confusion stage, what age group does it primarily affect?

    • Infants

    • Adolescents

    • Middle-aged adults

    • Older adults

    Correct Answer
    A. Adolescents
    Explanation
    Identity vs. role confusion primarily affects adolescents, as they navigate the transition from childhood to adulthood. This stage is marked by intense exploration of personal values, beliefs, and career aspirations. Adolescents experiment with different roles and identities to find a sense of self. Success leads to a strong sense of identity and direction, while failure results in confusion about one’s role in society. Peer influence, societal expectations, and family guidance play significant roles in this process. The ability to form a cohesive identity during adolescence impacts long-term emotional and social development, including career choices and interpersonal relationships.

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  • 3. 

    Which stage focuses on building relationships in young adulthood?

    • Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

    • Generativity vs. Stagnation

    • Intimacy vs. Isolation

    • Integrity vs. Despair

    Correct Answer
    A. Intimacy vs. Isolation
    Explanation
    In young adulthood, Erikson's stage of intimacy vs. isolation focuses on forming deep relationships. Success in this stage involves developing close connections with others, such as romantic partners and close friends. Failure leads to isolation and emotional distance. The ability to form intimate relationships depends on the identity established during adolescence. A lack of identity clarity often results in difficulties with intimacy. Achieving intimacy provides emotional stability and trust, while unresolved isolation can lead to loneliness. The dynamic balance of personal identity and shared vulnerability is essential for healthy relationship-building during this stage.

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  • 4. 

    What is Late Adulthood (65+yrs.) called?

    • Integrity vs. Despair

    • Shame vs. Doubt

    • Sickness vs. Wellness

    • Intimacy vs. Isolation

    Correct Answer
    A. Integrity vs. Despair
    Explanation
    Late adulthood, typically starting at age 65 and beyond, is characterized by the psychosocial stage of integrity versus despair. During this stage, individuals reflect on their lives and evaluate whether they have lived a meaningful and fulfilling life. If they feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, they develop a sense of integrity. However, if they harbor regrets and feel unfulfilled, they may experience despair and a sense of hopelessness. This stage is crucial for individuals to achieve a sense of wholeness and acceptance of their life's achievements and failures.

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  • 5. 

    How many stages of psychosocial development are there?

    • 8

    • 9

    • 6

    • 7

    Correct Answer
    A. 8
    Explanation
    The correct answer is 8. This is because according to Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, there are eight stages that individuals go through from infancy to old age. Each stage is characterized by a unique psychosocial crisis that individuals must resolve in order to develop a healthy personality and sense of self. These stages include trust vs. mistrust, autonomy vs. shame and doubt, initiative vs. guilt, industry vs. inferiority, identity vs. role confusion, intimacy vs. isolation, generativity vs. stagnation, and integrity vs. despair.

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  • 6. 

    What is Young adulthood (18-40 yrs) called?

    • Autonomy vs. shame

    • Initiative vs. guilt

    • Intimacy vs. isolation

    • Generativity vs. stagnation

    • Sickness vs. Wellness

    Correct Answer
    A. Intimacy vs. isolation
    Explanation
    During young adulthood, individuals typically seek to form close and meaningful relationships with others. This period of life is characterized by the desire for intimacy and connection, as well as the fear of isolation and loneliness. It is a time when individuals strive to establish long-term relationships, both romantic and platonic, and develop a sense of identity within these connections. The term "intimacy vs. isolation" accurately captures this stage of life and the psychological conflict that individuals may experience during this time.

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  • 7. 

    What is Erikson's adolescence age (12–18 yrs) called? 

    • Identity vs. role confusion

    •  intimacy vs. isolation

    • Industry vs. inferiority

    •  generativity vs. stagnation

    Correct Answer
    A. Identity vs. role confusion
    Explanation
    During Erikson's adolescence stage, individuals go through a crucial period of self-discovery and exploration. They are faced with the task of forming a strong sense of personal identity and figuring out their role in society. This stage is characterized by a struggle between developing a clear and stable identity and experiencing confusion and uncertainty about one's self and future. Thus, the term "identity vs. role confusion" accurately describes the challenges and conflicts faced during this period of development.

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  • 8. 

    What virtue is developed in the stage of industry vs. inferiority?

    • Competence

    • Fidelity

    • Hope

    • Love

    Correct Answer
    A. Competence
    Explanation
    The industry vs. inferiority stage, occurring between ages 6–12, emphasizes competence as its key virtue. Children begin formal education, take on tasks, and face challenges that test their skills. Success in this stage fosters confidence and a sense of accomplishment, as children see their efforts leading to tangible outcomes. If they fail or face consistent negative feedback, they may feel inferior, doubting their abilities. This stage is foundational in building self-efficacy, where children learn to value hard work and persistence. A balance between encouragement and constructive criticism ensures the development of competence, preparing them for future achievements.

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  • 9. 

    What is Erikson's Preschool age (3-6yrs) called?

    • Initiative vs. Guilt

    • Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

    • Industry bs. Integrity

    • Ego integrity vs. Despair

    Correct Answer
    A. Initiative vs. Guilt
    Explanation
    Erikson's theory of psychosocial development states that during the preschool age (3-6 years), children go through the stage of Initiative vs. Guilt. This stage is characterized by children developing a sense of purpose and taking initiative in their activities. They start to explore their environment, ask questions, and engage in imaginative play. If children are encouraged and supported in their initiatives, they develop a sense of confidence and independence. However, if their efforts are consistently criticized or restricted, they may develop feelings of guilt and a lack of self-confidence.

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  • 10. 

    What is Middle school 6-12 years called?

    • Trust vs. Mistrust

    • Industry vs. Inferiority

    • Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

    • Identity vs. Confusion

    Correct Answer
    A. Industry vs. Inferiority
    Explanation
    The correct answer is Industry vs. Inferiority. This stage of development, according to Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory, occurs during middle childhood (6-12 years). During this stage, children strive to develop a sense of competence and mastery in their skills and abilities. They seek to accomplish tasks and receive recognition for their efforts. If they are successful, they develop a sense of industry and feel competent. However, if they experience repeated failures or criticism, they may develop feelings of inferiority.

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  • 11. 

    What is Erikson's developmental stage during the toddler stage (1-3) called?

    • Crawling vs. Walking

    • Dry vs. Wet

    • Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

    • Initiative vs. Guilt

    Correct Answer
    A. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt
    Explanation
    Erikson’s developmental stage for toddlers (1-3 years) is Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt. During this stage, children begin exploring independence by making choices, learning basic self-care, and asserting control. When encouraged, they develop confidence and autonomy. However, if overly criticized or restricted, they may feel shame and doubt their abilities. Parents and caregivers play a crucial role by providing a supportive environment that fosters independence while ensuring safety. This stage is essential for building self-esteem and a sense of control, influencing future development and decision-making skills.

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  • 12. 

    What is Middle Adulthood called?

    • Independence vs. Loneliness

    • Generativity vs. Stagnation

    • Integrity vs. Despair

    • Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

    Correct Answer
    A. Generativity vs. Stagnation
    Explanation
    Middle adulthood is commonly referred to as the stage of "Generativity vs. Stagnation." During this period, individuals typically focus on contributing to society and the next generation, whether through raising children, mentoring others, or making a meaningful impact in their careers. This stage is characterized by a sense of productivity, creativity, and a desire to leave a lasting legacy. Stagnation, on the other hand, refers to a lack of growth or progress, where individuals feel unfulfilled and stagnant in their lives. This stage is marked by a sense of self-centeredness and a lack of purpose or contribution to others.

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  • 13. 

    What happens if an individual fails to resolve the stage of generativity vs. stagnation?

    • They experience despair.

    • They develop a sense of mistrust.

    • They become stagnant and unproductive.

    • They lose their identity.

    Correct Answer
    A. They become stagnant and unproductive.
    Explanation
    The generativity vs. stagnation stage focuses on middle adulthood and revolves around contributing to society. Generativity involves raising children, mentoring others, or making meaningful contributions to work and community. It represents productivity and a desire to leave a legacy. Failure to achieve generativity leads to stagnation, characterized by self-absorption, lack of productivity, and feelings of unimportance. This stage reflects the balance between personal growth and outward contributions. Success ensures a sense of purpose and fulfillment, while failure results in regret and dissatisfaction. The ability to balance self-care with care for others determines the outcomes of this stage.

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  • 14. 

    What is the primary challenge in Erikson's stage of early childhood (1–3)?

    • Guilt

    • Shame and Doubt

    • Trust

    • Isolation

    Correct Answer
    A. Shame and Doubt
    Explanation
    During the early childhood stage (1–3 years), Erikson emphasizes autonomy vs. shame and doubt as the critical psychosocial conflict. In this stage, children strive for independence by exploring their environment, making choices, and asserting their will. If caregivers support these efforts, children develop a sense of autonomy and confidence. However, if they face criticism or excessive control, they may develop shame and doubt about their abilities. This stage sets the foundation for self-esteem and independence, making the development of autonomy crucial. The balance achieved here significantly impacts a child's willingness to take risks and explore new opportunities in life.

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  • 15. 

    What are Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development based on?

    • Erikson's psychosexual theory

    • Freud’s psychosexual theory

    • Newton's psychosexual theory

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. Freud’s psychosexual theory
    Explanation
    Erikson's stages of psychosocial development are based on and are an expansion of Freud's psychosexual theory, with a greater emphasis on social and cultural influences rather than solely sexual ones. Erikson was a student of Freud and built upon his ideas to develop his own theory of psychosocial development. While Freud's theory focused on the development of the individual's sexual instincts, Erikson expanded this to include social and cultural factors as well. Therefore, the correct answer is Freud's psychosexual theory.

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Jennifer DeSetto |MSN (Mental Health) |
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer DeSetto is an ANCC board-certified PMHNP with a decade of experience in mental health. She earned her MSN in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing from Molloy University and holds a certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She excels in medication management and evidence-based practices, having worked in private practice, community mental health centers, and inpatient settings.

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  • Mar 24, 2025
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    Expert Reviewed by
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  • Jul 01, 2009
    Quiz Created by
    Kristie Shipley
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