A lifespan theory describing eight stages of social development.

• A. Erikson's psychosocial theory
• B. Piaget's cognitive development theory
• C. Freud's psychosexual theory
• D. Kohlberg's moral development theory

Answer: (A)

This question is about a framework that maps social and emotional growth across the entire life, describing eight distinct stages each with its own psychosocial challenge that can shape personality and relationships over time. This is Erikson's psychosocial theory. It proposes eight stages spanning from infancy to old age, such as trust versus mistrust in infancy, autonomy versus doubt, initiative versus guilt, industry versus inferiority, identity versus role confusion, intimacy versus isolation, generativity versus stagnation, and integrity versus despair. How each crisis is resolved influences how people relate to others and handle later challenges.

The other theories focus on different developmental threads. Piaget's theory centers on how thinking and reasoning evolve (cognitive development) rather than social roles across the lifespan. Freud's psychosexual theory emphasizes early drives and conflicts shaping personality. Kohlberg's theory focuses on the progression of moral reasoning, not a social-development timeline with eight stages. The eight-stage lifespan structure is unique to Erikson, making it the best fit for describing eight stages of social development.