Which stage of life is associated with the conflict of ego integrity vs despair?

In psychosocial development, the conflict of ego integrity versus despair occurs during old age, as posited by Erik Erikson in his theory of psychosocial stages. During this stage, individuals reflect on their lives and evaluate their accomplishments and experiences. Those who feel they have lived meaningful lives, made valuable contributions, and achieved a sense of coherence and fulfillment are more likely to achieve ego integrity. This results in a feeling of peace and acceptance regarding their life as a whole.

Conversely, those who reflect and feel regret, disappointment, or a sense of failure may experience despair. This can manifest as feelings of bitterness or dissatisfaction, stemming from a belief that they did not fulfill their potential or achieve what they desired. The process of reflecting on life during this stage is crucial in shaping an individual's final years, as it influences their overall attitude toward life and their readiness for death.

Understanding this conflict helps foster a deeper appreciation of how individuals navigate their later years and the importance of life review in achieving a sense of peace and completeness before the end of life.