Parenting and Attachment
Potentially traumatic events experienced before age 18, like abuse or neglect, are collectively called this.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
The immediate environment, including family, school, and friends, is called this system.
microsystem
In this stage (birth–18 months), infants learn whether or not the world can be trusted.
trust vs. mistrust
This stage from late teens to mid-20s involves exploration and self-discovery of identity, career, and relationships.
emerging adulthood
This attachment style shows children who are independent and avoid seeking comfort from caregivers.
avoidant attachment
This parenting style is strict, prioritizes obedience, and often uses punishment with little warmth.
Authoritarian parenting
Cultural values, societal norms, and economic conditions influence the child through this system.
macrosystem
Toddlers trying to do things independently without shame or doubt are in this stage (18 months–3 years).
autonomy vs. shame/doubt
Adolescents believing everyone is watching them constantly is known as this phenomenon.
imaginary audience
Parents who combine warmth with clear rules and encourage independence use this balanced parenting style.
authoritative parenting
This early-emerging characteristic influences how children respond to their environment, including activity level and emotional reactivity.
temperament
The interactions between different parts of a child’s immediate environment form this system.
mesosystem
Teenagers exploring who they are fall into this Erikson stage.
identity vs. role confusion
This term refers to the various versions of oneself one might become, including ideal and feared versions.
possible selves
Teens who believe their experiences are unique and feel invulnerable are demonstrating this concept.
personal fable
This is the rapid and instinctive form of early learning where young animals attach to the first moving object they see.
Imprinting
A parent’s workplace, which indirectly affects the child, is part of this system.
exosystem
The stage where older adults reflect on life achievements and regrets is called this.
integrity vs. despair
The cultural timeline for expected life events, like marriage or career milestones, is known as this.
social clock
James Marcia’s identity status where individuals commit to beliefs or goals without exploring alternatives is called this.
identity foreclosure
A child with inconsistent caregivers may develop this attachment style, showing confused or contradictory behaviors, often stemming from abuse or trauma.
disorganized attachment
Major life events and historical changes over time that impact development are encompassed by this system.
chronosystem
Adults 40–65 years old who focus on contributing to the next generation are in this stage.
generativity vs. stagnation
James Marcia’s status where individuals explore options but have not made firm commitments is called this.
identity moratorium
Erikson’s stage for children 6–12 years old who strive to demonstrate skills is called this.
industry vs. inferiority