Answer: C - According to Erikson’s theory, Mr. Johnson and his colleague are most likely supporting the development of the identity vs. role confusion stage of human development. This stage, which occurs during adolescence (12-18) is identified as the fifth stage of human development, and is characterized by the development of one’s sense of identity. By creating the multimedia presentation, these teachers are supporting the concept of identity, which will assist the students with reconciling any role confusion that they are experiencing. If the middle school teacher views the presentations before the first day, this also gives the teacher an opportunity to welcome the students with mention of specific information about their interests the following year. Again, this will reinforce the development of the students’ sense of identity.
Erikson's 8 Stages of Development:
- Infancy – Basic trust versus mistrust
- Toddler – Autonomy versus shame and doubt
- Preschool-age – Initiative versus guilt
- School-age – Industry versus inferiority
- Adolescence – Identity versus identity confusion
- Young adulthood – Intimacy versus isolation
- Middle age – Generativity versus stagnation
- Older adulthood – Integrity versus despair
