In Erikson's psychosocial theory, which stage is associated with the development of a sense of integrity or despair in later life?

• A. Generativity vs stagnation
• B. Ego integrity vs despair
• C. Integrity vs despair
• D. Identity vs role confusion

Answer: (C)

In Erikson's psychosocial theory, the stage in late life centers on how a person evaluates their life as a whole. If an older adult can look back with a sense of meaning, acceptance, and wholeness, they develop ego integrity. This means feeling satisfied with the life they've lived and at peace with its choices. If instead they view their life as a series of missed chances or unresolved conflicts, they may experience despair, characterized by regret, bitterness, and fear of death. This final stage stands apart from earlier ones: generativity vs stagnation occurs in middle adulthood and focuses on contributing to others and guiding the next generation; identity vs role confusion occurs in adolescence and concerns developing a coherent sense of self. Thus, the late-life stage specifically links integrity with a reflective assessment of one’s life as a whole.