Similar to Freud, except that the ego is considered to be partially innate and there is less emphasis on all behavior being defensive. Erikson downplays biological sexuality in favor of the psychosocial features of the conflict between child and parents. Development extends throughout the life-span and is divided into periods or stages. The amount of conflict in each stage determines whether the positive or negative pole is learned. Crisis here does not mean overwhelming stress, but the medical usage meaning a turning point.
Major problem is dependency.
Trust gives capacity for faith. A basic confidence in the future. Ritualisms are exaggerated, rigid, inappropriate ritualizations. Idolism is a distortion of the numinous reverence into adulation which gives an illusory image of perfection. Maldevelopment is a basic weaknesses resulting from poor resolution of the ego crisis.