Child Development

Labeling Theory: This theory’s basic premise is that labels applied to individuals influence their behaviors, especially as they relate to criminal activity and other negative actions. It claims that stigma attached to certain labels promotes negative behaviors related to the label, such as “juvenile delinquent”. In short, the labels become self-fulfilling prophecies. This theory places a great deal of control in the hands of society because the individual bases his sense of self on interactions with others and their judgments.

Psychosocial Stage Theory: Developed by Erik Erikson, this theory accounts for human behavior as a systematic progression through 8 stages. Certain “tasks” or psychosocial skills must be mastered in each stage and within a certain time frame. The following is an overview of a hypothetical boy’s progress through each stage, including the key task of the stage, critical relationship(s) in it, how the task is achieved, the positive outcome if the task is achieved, and the negative outcome if it is not:

1. Infancy (Ages 0 to 1): KEY TASK – Trust versus Mistrust:

1. He must sense that his needs are being met
2. His ability to trust is rooted in the quality of care he receives and his relationships with caregivers.


3. CRITICAL RELATIONSHIP: Mother
4. POSITIVE OUTCOME: He has the ability to hope and have faith
5. NEGATIVE OUTCOME: He mistrusts others and lacks self-confidence

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