Erikson's Initiative Vs. Guilt Period

Erik Erikson’s Initiative versus guilt period is a stage where children between the ages of 3 to 5 seek outside confirmation in their actions. I would dress in princess dresses and anything pink that I could find. As I began to take initiative, my mother validated me during this period by allowing me to do things on my own. I was very observant at this age and when I did everyday task I usually succeeded in them not because I was taught, but I mimicked actions that I saw. I was a very self-reliant child, because I did not like backlash. My mother was very a hard on at a young age and would scold me for not knowing how to things she thought were basic. The period of industry versus inferiority is a period where I had a lot of battles. My mother …show more content…
As a teenager, I would push limitation such as be late or curfews and lie about my location because I wanted to see if my mother would catch on. Adolescences experience a new wave of freedom due to societal standards and brain power due to biological functions. The new freedom gives them the opportunity to be able to act on things that were once just a mere thought. The unconscious thought process is referred to as “…thoughts, feelings, and desires that we are not aware of but that nonetheless exert a powerful influence on behavior” (p. 63). Adolescences construct their realities through interactions, which relates directly to the ecosystem model. However, teenagers are susceptible therefore vulnerable to a lot of social pressures rather they are trying to do the right thing or the wrong thing because their biggest influence is their peers. Resilience is shown during this stage at an all-time high. Adolescents that had people who cared step in, external support systems, heightened cognitive development, and well personal temperament used these strengths to exemplify …show more content…
After a constant battle with myself, I choose to be true to myself and pursue a career that I am passionate about instead of listening to what other thought may be best for me. I have always been a natural helper, especially to those close to me. However, since childhood, I have taken note that there is a difference in providing assistance to an individual versus providing temporary defense for them. I firmly feel that if I am in the position to help others I should. I know it feels to be in need and not have anyone to be of assistance. Through my life long development, thus far I have always wanted to help people, especially underrepresented people, specifically children. Children are the most vulnerable population, and often most manipulated. Adjusting to different situations is hard for a child and I have learned this from experience. People who around me helped me remain positive about the future. Helping children and providing them with the necessary tools for growth and success, is important to me no matter how big or small the growth is. Children often feel as if their voice does not matter, and I want to help them to be heard. My intentions are working in the best interest of children because now that I am older I know that children do not always know what is best for them even though they think they might. Social work is a career field that addresses social problems; I want to alleviate social