Patient talking with his therapist

Psychosocial Psychology

Psychosocial theories allow us to gain a better understanding of ourselves. Learn about the eight stages of psychosocial development that people experience from infancy to adulthood.
Somatic nervous system
What Is the Somatic Nervous System?
Medically reviewed by Huma Sheikh, MD
Woman Looking at Photographs
Integrity vs. Despair in Psychosocial Development
Reviewed by Amy Morin, LCSW
young students writing
Industry vs. Inferiority in Psychosocial Development
Reviewed by Amy Morin, LCSW
Intimacy versus isolation
Psychosocial Stage 6: Intimacy vs. Isolation
Reviewed by David Susman, PhD
teenagers leaning against wall
Identity vs. Role Confusion in Erikson's Theory
Reviewed by Amy Morin, LCSW
Mother and child
Trust vs. Mistrust: Learn About Psychosocial Stage 1
Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD
Toddler playing
Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt in Psychosocial Stage 2
Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD
Trust versus Mistrust is the first psychosocial stage
The 8 Stages of Human Development
Reviewed by Amy Morin, LCSW
an Asian woman and little girl drawing together
Initiative vs. Guilt: Psychosocial Stage 3
Reviewed by Amy Morin, LCSW
Two people talking
How the Theory of Mind Helps Us Understand Others
Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD
Woman tasting sauce from a wooden spoon
How Sensory Adaptation Works
Reviewed by Amy Morin, LCSW