Irony of the psychological stages
Erikson argues that psychological development involves a linear progression of key milestones and identity conflicts, with each event only occurring in the selected age group. This being said, critics have argued that actually these events are experienced at many different stages in life and argue for a more circular view of psychological development. Ironically, this is something his wife touches upon in her argument that there is a ninth stage when one reaches old age, in which they are confronted with many of the same milestones they confronted earlier in their life.
Irony of prominence
Although Freud is regarded as a prominent and influential psychologist, many experts today actually favor Erikson's account of psychological development. Freud's emphasis on sexuality and bodily development is considered irrational by many critics, while Erikson's focus on ego and identity seems more plausible.
Irony of style
Although Erikson's arguments are often presented in a categorical and condensed way, this text is very different. Erikson's text is a mixture of personal case studies, literary interpretation, historical case studies, and imagery.
