Stages of Human Development: Piaget vs. Erikson MCQs is an important subject for CSS Competitive Exam hopefuls interested in knowing how cognitive and psychosocial development takes place throughout life. Jean Piaget and Erik Erikson formulated key theories about how people develop cognitively, emotionally, and socially. Both of their models have universal applications in education, psychology, and human development research. Preparation of the CSS exam needs to know about Piaget’s stages of cognitive development, Erikson’s psychosocial stages, and how they apply practically.
H2: Piaget’s Theory of Cognitive Development
Jean Piaget’s theory describes how children acquire thinking and reasoning skills in four distinct stages:
Sensorimotor Stage (0-2 years): Infants acquire knowledge through sensory experiences and motor activities. They develop object permanence.
Preoperational Stage (2-7 years): Children exhibit symbolic thinking, imagination, and egocentrism but are unable to reason.
Concrete Operational Stage (7-11 years): Logical thinking evolves, facilitating understanding of conservation, classification, and problem-solving.
Formal Operational Stage (12+ years): Abstract thought appears, supporting hypothetical reasoning and moral judgment.
Piaget noted that cognitive growth is a forward-moving process dictated by biological growth and experience. The CSS examination MCQ questions evaluate understanding of these stages and how they relate to education, problem-solving, and learning mechanisms.
H3: Erikson’s Psychosocial Development Theory
Erik Erikson broadened Freud’s psychoanalytic theory by presenting eight psychosocial stages encompassing life:
Trust vs. Mistrust (0-1 year): Infants learn to trust based on caregiver consistency.
Autonomy vs. Shame (1-3 years): Toddlers establish independence through exploration.
Initiative vs. Guilt (3-6 years): Children take initiative in social relationships.
Industry vs. Inferiority (6-12 years): Mastery of skills builds confidence.
Identity vs. Role Confusion (12-18 years): Adolescents explore self-definition.
Intimacy vs. Isolation (18-40 years): Young adults establish intimate relationships.
Generativity vs. Stagnation (40-65 years): Adults give back to society.
Integrity vs. Despair (above 65 years): Reflection about life results in fulfillment or remorse.
Erikson emphasized social and emotional development as long-term processes shaped by experiences and relationships. MDCAT Quiz offers free flashcards and MCQs to aid CSS aspirants in understanding core concepts of human development and psychology. Prepare with CSS MCQs to learn how cognitive and psychosocial variables form personality, learning, and behavior.
