Erikson or Piaget? Please offer detail to explain your choice.

Piaget’s and Erikson’s Theories of Development

Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development emphasizes the role of maturation and active exploration in learning. According to Piaget, children progress through four cognitive developmental stages, from the sensorimotor stage (birth to 2 years) to the formal operational stage (age 11 and up), as they acquire new knowledge and experiences through their senses, movement, and mental operations (Piaget & Inhelder, 1969).

Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development, on the other hand, focuses on the emotional and social aspects of development across eight stages of life, from infancy to old age. The developmental challenges or crises that each stage presents must be addressed in order to progress to the following stage (Erikson, 1951).

Comparison of Theories

Piaget’s and Erikson’s theories have different foci and assumptions about human development. Piaget’s theory emphasizes the role of cognition and how children construct knowledge from their experiences, while Erikson’s theory emphasizes the role of emotions and relationships in shaping a person’s identity and worldview. Piaget’s theory assumes that development is primarily a result of individual exploration and maturation, while Erikson’s theory emphasizes the role of social interactions and cultural norms in shaping development.

In terms of which theory is “better” for understanding human development, it depends on the perspective and context. Piaget’s theory is influential in cognitive psychology and education, as it provides a framework for understanding how children learn and develop cognitive skills. However, some criticisms of Piaget’s theory include its overemphasis on logical thinking and underemphasis on social and cultural influences on development (Lourenço & Machado, 1996).

Erikson’s theory is influential in social work and counseling, as it provides a framework for understanding how people navigate life’s challenges and transitions. However, some criticisms of Erikson’s theory include its overemphasis on stages and age-based expectations and underemphasis on individual variation and cultural diversity (Grossman & Eichler, 2010).

Dealing with Grief: Tips to Cope With It

When someone suffers a great loss, knowing the stages of mourning will allow them to cope better with their feelings. The five stages of grief, according to Kübler-Ross (1969), are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Here are some suggestions that can help those who are grieving.

1. Let yourself feel the emotions. Don’t suppress or deny your feelings, as they are a natural response to loss.
2. You can seek support from your family members, close friends or a professional therapist. You can process your emotions by talking about them. This will make you feel less isolated.
3. Make sure you take care of your body by getting plenty of sleep, exercising and eating healthy.
4. You can do this by engaging in hobbies, music or meditation.
5. Do not rush yourself. Be kind and patient. There is no wrong or right way to mourn.

References:

Erikson, E. H. (1950). Childhood and Society. Norton.

Grossman, J. B., & Eichler, L. (2010). Exploring Erikson’s psychosocial theory of development: Generativity and its relationship to paternal identity, intimacy, and generative action. Identity: An International Journal of Theory and Research. 10(3). 187-201.

Kübler-Ross, E. (1969). On Death and Dying. Macmillan.

Lourenço, O., & Machado, A. (1996). In defense of Piaget’s theory: A reply to ten common criticisms. Psychological Review, Volume 103.