In Erikson's theory, Integrity vs Despair occurs at which stage?

• A. Intimacy vs Isolation
• B. Generativity vs Stagnation
• C. Integrity vs Despair
• D. Industry vs Inferiority

Answer: (C)

Integrity vs Despair is the final stage in Erikson’s psychosocial development, happening in late adulthood as people look back over their lives. The key task is to review experiences and feel a sense of fulfillment and coherence, which yields wisdom and peace. When life is seen as meaningful, this leads to integrity. If instead the retrospective view is filled with regrets, missed opportunities, or unresolved conflicts, despair can take hold, bringing bitterness and fear of death. This stage follows the earlier stages of intimacy vs isolation (forming close relationships in young adulthood), generativity vs stagnation (contributing to the next generation in middle adulthood), and industry vs inferiority (developing competence during childhood).