Childhood
Erikson argues that childhood is incredibly significant and influences a person's psychological development throughout their lives. Erikson is now considered to be the founder of childhood psychology. Childhood and the importance of early years in a person's psychological development is something Erikson refers to throughout the text.
Identity crisis
At each stage of psychological development, Erikson argues that a person encounters an identity crisis. At this point, they respond either positively or negatively, which impacts their progression through the other stages.
Death
In one case study, Erikson discusses a young boy who began to have epileptic seizures following the death of his grandmother. These fits were triggered by encounters with death, such as seeing a dead mole or a dead butterfly. Here, Erikson concludes that the death of his grandmother significantly impacted his psychological development.
Case studies
Erikson's text is full of case studies and examples to illustrate his point. He emphasizes these experiences in order to verify his theoretical arguments about the development of children. Examples include his experiences in Native American tribes, a biographical analysis of Hitler and a story about a young boy suffering from epilepsy.
