What the exam asks
- Section I (Multiple Choice): You will read short vignettes about individuals facing life dilemmas or identity questions and match them to Erikson’s eight psychosocial stages, Marcia’s four identity statuses, or adolescent egocentrism concepts.
- Section II (Free Response): In an EBQ on adolescent behavior or adult well-being, you may need to apply concepts like adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), the social clock, or attachment styles as your outside psychological knowledge in parts B(ii) and C(ii). In an AAQ, longitudinal or cross-sectional studies on peer influence or emerging adulthood are common.
Core ideas
Erikson’s psychosocial stage theory
Erik Erikson proposed that personality develops across the entire lifespan through eight sequential stages, each defined by a specific psychosocial conflict.
| Stage & Approximate Age | Psychosocial Conflict | Core Developmental Question & Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Infancy (0–1 yr) | Trust vs. Mistrust | Are my basic needs met consistently? Builds a sense of safety. |
| 2. Toddlerhood (1–3 yrs) | Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt | Can I do things for myself (e.g., dressing, toilet training)? Builds independence. |
| 3. Preschool (3–6 yrs) | Initiative vs. Guilt | Can I initiate tasks, games, and plans on my own? Builds purpose. |
| 4. Elementary (6–puberty) | Industry vs. Inferiority | Am I competent compared to peers in school and skills? Builds competence. |
| 5. Adolescence (teens–20s) | Identity vs. Role Confusion | Who am I and what do I value? Builds fidelity to a coherent self. |
| 6. Young Adulthood (20s–40s) | Intimacy vs. Isolation | Can I form deep, committed relationships without losing myself? Builds love. |
| 7. Middle Adulthood (40s–60s) | Generativity vs. Stagnation | How can I contribute to the next generation (work, parenting, mentoring)? Builds care. |
| 8. Late Adulthood (60s+) | Integrity vs. Despair | Did I live a meaningful life? Builds wisdom and acceptance. |
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events occurring before age 18, such as abuse, neglect, or severe household dysfunction.
- Lifespan impact: High exposure to ACEs correlates with chronic stress, impaired emotional regulation, and difficulty forming trusting, stable relationships in adolescence and adulthood.
- Sociocultural differences: Culture and community context shape both what is experienced as an ACE and its long-term outcomes. Supportive extended family networks, cultural resilience practices, and community resources can buffer the negative impact of early adversity.