Who is known for developing the stages of human development?

Erik Erikson is known for developing the stages of human development through his theory of psychosocial development. He proposed that individuals go through eight distinct stages from infancy to adulthood, each characterized by a psychosocial conflict that must be resolved for healthy psychological development. This framework emphasizes the impact of social experiences across the entire lifespan, suggesting that personality development is a lifelong process.

By identifying these stages, Erikson contributed significantly to our understanding of how individuals evolve in their social roles and personal identities over time. His stages include critical concepts such as trust versus mistrust in infancy and integrity versus despair in old age, highlighting the importance of relationships and societal influences on development. This foundational theory has influenced various fields, including psychology, education, and counseling, making Erikson's work a cornerstone in the study of human development.