The Life Cycle Completed: A Review

by Erik H. Erikson and Joan M. Erikson

Book Overview

For decades Erik H. Erikson's concept of the stages of human development has deeply influenced the field of contemporary psychology. Here, with new material by Joan M. Erikson, is an expanded edition of his final work. The Life Cycle Completed eloquently closes the circle of Erikson's theories, outlining the unique rewards and challenges-for both individuals and society-of very old age.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0393302296
• ISBN13: 9780393302295
• Release Date: January 1985
• Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
• Length: 108 Pages
• Weight: 0.15 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 4.8" x 7.4"

Customer Reviews

Great

The book contains very good descriptions of the life cycles expanding upon the Freudian psychosexual theory and incorporating Erikson's expansions along with his wife's analysis.

The 9th Stage of Identity Development

I love the idea of a 9th Stage of "Transcendance" (yes, it's spelled "dance") with the virtue of "faith". Joan Erikson does hint at a certain element of pessimism over the deterioration of previous stages earned, going downhill in old age. However, in the end she speaks of the 9th stage that more than makes up for those losses. I think this stage could get a little more attention ..... transcendance and faith are worth teaching alongside the other 8 stages.