Freud V. Erikson Essay Example
Freud V. Erikson Essay Example

Freud V. Erikson Essay Example

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  • Pages: 2 (348 words)
  • Published: September 30, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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Sharkey (2003, p.1) reports that Erik Erikson, a well-known psychoanalyst, received extensive education from Sigmund Freud but was ultimately influenced to create his own theory on human development which he felt was more comprehensive and expansive than that of his mentor.

Although Erikson initially shared Freud's views, he later recognized their disparities. Both asserted that personality evolves in stages which are influenced by certain occurrences at specific time periods. Nevertheless, while Freud's theory posits that personality takes shape by age five, Erikson contends that personal development is an ongoing process throughout one's lifespan.

Langley (2000, p. 2) suggests that humans go through different stages in life which have a lasting impact on their personality. This belief emphasizes the importance of adult development, which was not adequately considered in Freud's theories.

It dawned on him that his ideas possesse

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d unique qualities that set them apart. To achieve optimal growth, striking a perfect balance between the two extremes is crucial.

Erikson's perspective on human development differed from Freud's in that he placed greater emphasis on the role of the environment (Huitt, 1997, p.). Though both their theories were distinct from contemporary viewpoints, according to Erikson, a period of sexual latency lasting five to six years precedes puberty when sexuality is reawakened. Nevertheless, personally, I believe that experiences shape a person's character. Freud, on the other hand, attributed biological instincts as the primary drive for human behavior (Mikula, 2003-2004 p.).

This stage, which occurs before fixation, can result in previous damage from the oral, anal, and phallic stages. Success in this stage, from birth to 18 months, depends on consistent and appropriate caregiving, leading to a tendency to trust others. Daily problem

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and decisions can lead to personal change and growth through adaptation to new demands, causing new crises. Successful navigation of previous crisis foundations and suitable environments provide the highest chance of success in overcoming the next crisis and advancing through stages. Successful completion of one stage improves the odds of success in future crises.

The occurrence takes place during the period of the intimacy versus isolation crisis.

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