Erikson's 6th stage involves adults seeking someone to share their lives with in an enduring commitment; without it they risk loneliness.

Erikson's 6th stage involves adults seeking someone to share their lives with in an enduring commitment; without it they risk loneliness.

• A. Autonomy vs Shame
• B. Generativity vs Stagnation
• C. Identity vs Role Confusion
• D. Intimacy vs Isolation

Answer: (D)

Intimacy vs Isolation centers on forming close, enduring relationships in adulthood. When people can open up, trust, and commit to another person—whether a romantic partner, close friend, or family—they experience deep emotional connection, mutual support, and a sense of belonging. Success in this stage leads to meaningful, lasting bonds and personal growth. If these intimate connections don’t develop, loneliness and a sense of isolation can result, even if social networks exist. This contrasts with other stages, such as autonomy vs shame (early independence), identity vs role confusion (adolescent self-definition), and generativity vs stagnation (contributing to others in middle adulthood). So, the scenario described—pursuing an enduring intimate relationship to avoid loneliness—fits intimacy vs isolation.

Intimacy vs Isolation centers on forming close, enduring relationships in adulthood. When people can open up, trust, and commit to another person—whether a romantic partner, close friend, or family—they experience deep emotional connection, mutual support, and a sense of belonging. Success in this stage leads to meaningful, lasting bonds and personal growth. If these intimate connections don’t develop, loneliness and a sense of isolation can result, even if social networks exist. This contrasts with other stages, such as autonomy vs shame (early independence), identity vs role confusion (adolescent self-definition), and generativity vs stagnation (contributing to others in middle adulthood). So, the scenario described—pursuing an enduring intimate relationship to avoid loneliness—fits intimacy vs isolation.