Erikson and Maslow’s Comparison of Theories



Erikson and Maslow’s Comparison of Theories

Tina L. Berrien

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Abstract

This article review Erikson’s psychosocial theory and Marlow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory. This article will highlight the correlation between the two theories as well as identify the strength and weakness found in each. Erikson’s Theory descrie the eight stages of development, whereas Maslow’s suggest seven needs required in reaching self-actualization.

Theories

Over the course of an individual life span, one experience series of age related changes known as development. Developments of acquiring series are known as stages. Erickson’s Psychosocial Theory focused on three assumptions for stages of development. These series include transitioning through stages in specific order, related to age, and contribution of culture (Newman & Newman, 2012). According to Newman & Newman (2012), to introduce psychosocial is to study development which includes; biological, psychological and societal systems (p.64). Newman & Newman (2012) outlines Erikson’s eight psychosocial stages; their description and approximate time span associated with each are as follows (Figure 3.1, p.65):

1) Basic trust versus basic mistrust-- main experiential mode in this stage is oral-receptive

2) Autonomy versus shame and doubt- (18 months to 3 years) results in the child’s pleasure in independent actions and self-expression; failure leads to shame and self–doubt

3) Initiative versus guilt- (3 to 6 years) child’s efforts to reach and attain goals acquires importance aggression or manipulation of the environment triggers an abiding sense of guilt.

4) Industry versus inferiority- (6 to 12 years) efforts to use tools, his sense of being productive, and his developing ability to complete tasks

5) Identity versus Identity Confusion- (12 to 20 years) perhaps the most extensively developed component; Stable identity- that give the child the sense that he is a person with a history, stability, and a continuity that is recognizable by others.

6) Intimacy versus self-absorption- ( 20 to 35) Occurs during early adulthood, individual’s acquisition of a capacity for healthy, sense of personal identity

7) Generatively versus stagnation- (35 to retirement) phase of the adult life cycle, engaged in critical tasks and responsibilities of parenting

8) Integrity versus despair - (retirement years) culmination of ego identity reflect a level of maturity signaling the individual’s acceptance of the past, particularly past disappointments and mistakes

Newman & Newman (2012) propose Erickson suggest more attention to stage 1, trust verses mistrust and stage 5, indentify verses confusion, than to any of the other six. Evidence suggests certain consistency in psychological growth, meaning one’s development continues in the direction that it starts. Research also proposes no one skips stages, and through there may demonstrate regression in earlier stages, one tend to complete in order and proceed through them all.

Receiving the positive love of this writer’s mother during infancy enabled trust. Delivery of needs of food, shelter, and clothing was a constant during this phase. Progression on to the nest included acquiring of new skills. Learning to walk, talk and feed oneself introduced the sense of independence. Having the teaching of this writer’s parent instilled the concept of right on wrong. Progression onward opened the need to assist and emulate the skills of those around me. Wanting to please my loved ones increase self-awareness and ability (this is the time singing became a purposeful art). During adolescents according to Erikson, up to this point development mostly depends upon what is done to us. Now the struggle is more relevant, not being a child nor an adult created some confusion and challenges. Wanting to be in line with the thing peer related caused a shift in parental communication. Presently in the young adult stage, teachings of my parent are resurfacing with the start of family. It is assumed that all stages were completed successfully up to this point as I observe the cycle of Erickson development stage continuing on with my teaching and interaction. Success in acquiring marriage and children is satisfying.

Maslow’s Needs Theory offers insight into basics that humans need to progress through life. Maslow’s hierarchical is the positioning of various needs prearranged through their effectiveness that influences an individual efficacy (Newman & Newman, 2012). Huitt (2007) illustration of Marlow’s hierarchy from the bottom up, states human five needs as:

Physiological- hunger; thirst; bodily comforts

Safety- out of danger

Love/Belonging- affiliate with others; Confidence; Respect by others; acceptance

Esteem- achievement; being competent; gain approval and recognition

Self-Actualization- self-fulfillment; realize one's potential

These needs arrange themselves in hierarchies of prepotency as a pyramid, ascending to self-actualization implying that one has full potential in participating in daily living (Newman & Newman, 2012, p.434). Maslow suggested that only approximately one percent fall human beings were self-actualizers, whereas others were still striving to have their lower needs met (Maslow, 1968, cited in Timonen & O'Dwyer, 2008).

According to Benson (2003) to understand and motivate the individual is to revisit Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, which has and continues to be used as a means to assist in understanding human behavior (p.316). As previously mentioned Maslow suggested that human beings have their needs met in a linear way. This concept can be applied to the development of this writer. While time of infancy can not be recalled, cognition of other gathered memories assume accomplishment in levels.

The first stage introduced bonding and security. This stage also incorporates a bonding relationship with mother. Through interactions, biological and physical needs were meet to included comfort, security, and nourishment and feeding. The constant teaching and hard work of this writers parents enabled successfully completion of this stage. Evidence of mastering this stage is demonstrated in the continued close relationship with both parents, as well as physical and mental health.

Entering the stage of Toddlerhood (2-3 yrs), Maslow explains the seeking of safety materializes (Newman & Newman, 2012). Where the bond with mother was precedent, security from both parents is fundamental. Another progression included emphasis on muscular control, bodily functions and walking. For safety reasons, this is the stage in seeking independence with toilet-trained as well as exploration of surrounding areas. Again the teaching and interactions received from with writer’s mother ensured successfully completion of this stage.

Surrounded by the communication and laughter of family members indicated the presents of love and belonging (stage 3). Encouraged to share my toys with others offered this writer the sense of compassion. Furthermore, spending time with family members and establishing friends gave way to for either providing or receiving affection and formulating meaningful relationship.

Maslow suggested that every individual has a need for a stable, firmly based high evaluation of themselves, for self-respect, and for the esteem of others (Newman & Newman, 2012). Becoming school age (middle childhood) introduces self esteem. Recalling the previous stages met combined with the strength and teaching of both parents. Opportunities such as lead singer in church choir, certificates in school academics, and recreational sports facilitated an increase in this writer’s self-esteem. Offered the advantage of part time work added to the increase of self- esteem; permitting financial accretion. By working, this writer increased independence, accompanied by understanding of economic awareness.

Harper, Harper, & Stills (2003) specify “because of a number of reasons, including protection, love, and esteem, and opportunities to acquire an education or to learn and develop a natural talent ability or potential, raises the level of self-actualization” (p.23). Advancement through previous stage designate full effective participation and placement Maslow’s final stage; Self- Actualization. From a psychoanalytic perspective Hanley & Abell (2002) explains for self-actualizing people the need for love and belongingness presumably has been fulfilled and no longer exists (p.39). With child hood over, focus is now directed to intense/ intimate relationship including marriage and child rearing. Establishment in career stability is also present during this stage as well a repeating of continued education with successful completion of this Social Work program.

From a Social work perspective- the core ideas of the strength perspective are empowerment, membership, regeneration. According to the NASW social worker has the ethical responsibility to strengths perspective recognizes that all people are entitled to the dignity, respect, and responsibility (NASW, 2008). Timonen & O'Dwyer (2008) indicate that Maslow Hierarchy of needs would be supportive for social work professionals; considering ongoing assessment of advocacy and empowerment initiative used in service (p. 612).

In conclusion, viewing the evidence both theories has strengths and limitations. Although Erickson stages invite others to complete his work, empirical research have not been connected to the development stages (Newman & Newman, 2012). Erickson identified periods of life in names, but failed to assign ages. Each theory demonstrate parallel transitioning, in that before moving to the next phase certain accomplishment must be met. Evidence also suggests the existence of external forces contributing to the need or stage of the individual within each theory.

Reference

Benson, S. G., & Dundis, S. P. (2003). Understanding and Motivating Health Care Employees: Integrating Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, Training and Technology. Journal Of Nursing Management, 11(5), 315-320. doi:10.1046/j.1365-2834.2003.00409.x.

Hanley, S. J., & Abell, S. C. ((2002). Maslow and relatedness: Creating an interpersonal model of self-actualization. Journal Of Humanistic Psychology 42 4 , 37-56 doi:10.1177/002216702237123.

Harper, F. D., Harper, J. A., & Stills, A. B. (2003). Counseling children in crisis based on Maslow's hierarchy of basic needs. International Journal For The Advancement Of Counselling, 25 (1), 10-25.

Huitt, W. (2007, October). Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Retrieved from Educational Psychology Interactive; Valdosta State University:

National Association of Social Workers, N.A. (2008). Code of Ethics. Washington, DC: NASW.

Newman, B. M., & Newman, P. R. (2012). Development Through Life: A Psychosocial Approach. Belmon, CA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning.

Timonen, V. V., & O'Dwyer, C. C. (2009). Living in Institutional Care: Residents' Experiences and Coping Strategies. Social Work in Health Care, 48(6), 597-613.

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