Which aspect of development does Erikson's theory focus on?

Erikson's theory of development emphasizes social-emotional milestones as a fundamental aspect of human growth. His framework is centered around eight stages of psychosocial development, each characterized by a specific conflict that individuals must navigate to develop a healthy personality and social relationships. These stages encompass critical social and emotional challenges, such as trust versus mistrust in infancy or identity versus role confusion in adolescence. Successfully resolving these conflicts leads to the development of virtues and strengths that are essential for personal and social identity. This focus on the interplay between social relationships and emotional well-being distinguishes Erikson's theory within the broader field of developmental psychology, as it highlights how social interactions shape individual growth across the lifespan.

In contrast, the other options focus on different areas that are not the central concern of Erikson's work. Cognitive milestones pertain to mental processes and intellectual development, physical growth stages relate to bodily changes and skills, and neurobiological changes involve the structures and functions of the brain and nervous system. While these aspects are integral to understanding human development, they do not capture the essence of Erikson's focus on social-emotional development.