What is a key feature of Erikson's psychosocial stages of development?

A key feature of Erikson's psychosocial stages of development is the concept of conflict resolution at various life stages. Erikson's theory posits that each stage of development is centered around a specific psychosocial crisis that individuals must navigate. Successfully resolving these conflicts leads to the development of a healthy personality and the acquisition of basic virtues. For instance, during the stage of "Trust vs. Mistrust," the resolution of this conflict significantly affects an individual's ability to trust others later in life. This framework highlights the social and emotional aspects of growth over time, distinguishing Erikson's work from theories that might focus primarily on biological changes, cognitive processes, or strictly cognitive resolutions. The understanding of these interpersonal conflicts and their implications is essential for grasping human development according to Erikson's model.