Using two theorists, what stages of the lifespan development are evident in this scenario? Please consider Holly, Joel, Connie, her parents and brother Jack.
Case Study - Holly .
Young Adulthood (19-40 years).
Holly is currently in the early adulthood lifespan stage; during this stage Erikson believes that the basic conflict is Intimacy vs. Isolation. Erickson has stated that during this developmental lifespan "Young adults need to form intimate, loving relationships with other people. Success leads to strong relationships, while failure results in loneliness and a weak sense of self" (Erikson). Given Holly's history it is evident that this life stage will be a struggle for her. Holly has failed to have loving relationship in her life, this stems from Holly's relationships with her parents, brother and perhaps the father of her children. In time she may be able to form a stronger, healthier loving bond with her children and have this developmental lifespan stage met through them. Holly's major hurdle at this stage would be loneliness and feelings of weak sense of self. It is evident that this along with her mental health and alcohol dependency would be a ripple on effect from being removed from her family as a child. It is clear that Holly has missed out on important developmental life stages such as her early adulthood due to becoming a mother at eighteen years of age.
Case Study - Joel .
Early Childhood (2-3 years).
Erikson claims that children who have mastered this developmental stage gain a perception of self such as "a sense of separateness and personal identity" by their third second year. He argues that: At this time their basic task is to learn when to hold on and when to let go. Erikson labelled the conflict that must be resolved at this stage as autonomy versus shame and doubt (Slee, 2002 p228). Success in this developmental stage would be challenging for Joel to meet.