What are the stages of Erikson's psychosocial development?

Erikson's theory of psychosocial development identifies eight distinct stages that individuals progress through from infancy to late adulthood. Each of these stages is characterized by a central conflict essential for personal growth and development. The conflicts range from "trust vs. mistrust" in infancy, where the infant learns whether they can trust their caregivers, to "integrity vs. despair" in old age, where individuals reflect on their lives and either feel a sense of fulfillment or regret.

This comprehensive framework emphasizes the importance of social and emotional development across the lifespan, integrating both psychological and social aspects. It captures the complexity of human development by proposing that each stage depends on the successful resolution of the preceding challenges, and the outcomes influence future behaviors and personality.

The other options do not accurately represent Erikson's model. While relationships and identity are significant in some stages, the theory encompasses a broader scope with eight stages. The reference to five stages does not align with Erikson's work, nor does the notion of three stages of cognitive development, which is more closely associated with Piaget's theory. Thus, the correct choice highlights the full scope of Erikson's psychosocial development framework.