Societal Limitations To Erikson's Alternative Theory

Introduction Traditional theories are important to understand as they are the foundation alternative theories come from and are the groundwork of many social work beliefs and constructions. Traditional theories were developed in a time that cultural diversity was not common, women were not seen as equals, and socioeconomic status was not considered among many other elements overlooked at impacting a person’s development. However, what traditional theories lack in is what led to the development of alternative theories.
Alternative theories provide another view that emphasizes aspects of a person that traditional theories do not look at, such as gender, sexuality, race, cultural background, religious identity, occupation, family makeup and marital …show more content…
What a person experiences that causes a person to find resolve and proceed to the next stage. Based on observation it is difficult to observe what experiences have led Jon to his current stages according in Erikson’s theory.
While observing Jon engaging on the tablet and showing his caregiver what he had done can be applied to stage 4 of Erikson’s theory. Though stage 4 encompasses an older and larger age group, Jon appeared to be seeking approval from his caregiver at what he did.
Alternative Theory
Intersectionality is an alternative theory that looks beyond the age and developmental stages of a person. Instead of taking an aspect of a person’s identity, intersectionality is a holistic approach in understanding the different dimensions that make a person who they are. Intersectionality looks at how the multiple identities of a person interact with the environment and how the environment impacts the multiple identities of a person. By acknowledging each aspect of a person’s identity, a deeper understanding of the person can be understood. Multiple identities can include demographics, occupation, religious beliefs, family, social interactions,