Periodization is the division of time into convenient periods or blocks. Aging and phases of human development were described in many scientific perspectives in the scientific literature and changed their paradigms.
Aging and phases of human development were described in many scientific perspectives in the scientific literature and changed their paradigms. Plato already paid attention to various social roles and individual possibilities, changing with age. (Zmorzanka, 2011). The previous divisions, which characterize particular periods of human life, were usually associated with record age and referred to different areas of functioning, both in the private and social spheres.
The above division is connected in particular with the development approach and phases referring to such an approach. The following theory deserves attention: Erik Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development.
According to the theory, successful completion of each stage results in a healthy personality and the acquisition of basic virtues. Basic virtues are characteristic strengths which the ego can use to resolve subsequent crises.
| Stage | Psychosocial Crisis | Basic Virtue | Age |
| 1. | Trust vs. Mistrust | Hope | 0 – 1½ |
| 2. | Autonomy vs. Shame | Will | 1½ – 3 |
| 3. | Initiative vs. Guilt | Purpose | 3 – 5 |
| 4. | Industry vs. Inferiority | Competency | 5 – 12 |
| 5. | Identity vs. Role Confusion | Fidelity | 12 – 18 |
| 6. | Intimacy vs. Isolation | Love | 18 – 40 |
| 7. | Generativity vs. Stagnation | Care | 40 – 65 |
| 8. | Ego Integrity vs. Despair | Wisdom | 65+ |
One of the strengths of Erikson’s theory is its ability to tie together important psychosocial development across the entire lifespan.
Comprehensive theoretical concepts of human development proposed also other researchers: Charlotte Bühler, Jean Piaget, Sigmund Freud, Lew S. Wygotski, Alfred Adler.