In this paper, I will discus two theories that are related to early and middle adulthood. Also, I will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each of the theories. The two theories that I have selected are Erikson's Intimacy versus isolation to explain the early adulthood stage, and the Life Events Approach theory.
In the Erikson's psychosocial developmental theory (intimacy versus isolation stage), Intimacy can be explained as "is the ability to fuse ones identity with that of another person without fear of loosing it" (Feist, 2008, 258). It further means an ability and willingness to share a mutual trust. It involves sacrifice, compassion, commitment and so on.
Isolation on the other hand, is the psychosocial counterpart of intimacy. It is defined as "the incapacity to take chances with ones identity by sharing true intimacy" (Feist, 2008, 259). Erikson believed that there should be a fine ratio between the intimacy and isolation; as too much isolation can further cause problems such as depression.
Feist at BluesFest 2008
The Intimate Relationship between Traffic and Tras...
Sigmund Freud, founder of psychoanalysis, smoking ...Love is the basic strength that is gained as a result from the crisis of intimacy versus isolation). According to Erikson, love includes intimacy but it also contains some degree of isolation, because each partner is permitted to retain a separate identity (Feist, 2008).
Strengthsâ¢His theory gave a life span developmental process.
â¢His theory explains each stage in detail including the time frame, and the changes involved.
â¢He addressed it is important to move through the stages in order or it could causes crisis.
â¢Extended Freud's theory into different developmental stages such as adolescence, adulthood and old age.
â¢Claimed that growth occurs across the life span.
â¢Places emphasis on social and historical influences on development in his theoryâ¢Conflict between the opposing elements of each phase produces an ego strength or basic strength.
Weaknessesâ¢His theory...