What is the main focus of Erikson's psychosocial development theory?

Erikson's psychosocial development theory primarily focuses on interpersonal relationships and social conflicts throughout an individual's lifespan. He proposed that individuals go through eight distinct stages of development, each characterized by a specific psychosocial crisis that must be resolved. These crises arise from the interactions between the individual and their social environment, highlighting how relationships with others contribute to psychological growth and personality development.

For example, during the stage of trust versus mistrust, an infant develops a sense of security based on their interactions with primary caregivers. Success in navigating these stages fosters a healthy personality and the ability to form meaningful relationships. Thus, the emphasis on how social conflicts and relationships shape development is central to Erikson's theory, distinguishing it from theories focused solely on cognitive, physical, or environmental aspects.