Which Erikson stage dominates adolescence?

• A. Identity vs. role confusion
• B. Autonomy vs. shame
• C. Industry vs. inferiority
• D. Generativity vs. stagnation

Answer: (A)

During adolescence the central task is forming a coherent sense of self and figuring out what kind of person you want to be in adulthood. This is the stage of Identity vs. Role Confusion. When this tension is worked through, you develop a stable identity and the ability to stay true to yourself under social pressures, often described as fidelity. If it isn’t resolved, you may experience role confusion—uncertainty about who you are and what you want to become.

Other stages occur at different times. Autonomy vs. shame happens earlier, in the toddler years, as children learn to do things for themselves and manage independence. Industry vs. inferiority is in the school-age years, focusing on developing competence and skills. Generativity vs. stagnation appears later, in adulthood, centered on contributing to the next generation and finding meaning through that work.