Problem 5 - An Introduction to Theories of Personality

Question

(a) Give a real-life example to support Erikson's belief that our society creates difficulties for us by stressing contradictory values. (b) Give an example to illustrate the positive support provided by a socially sanctioned role.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

A clear case of societal contradiction highlighted by Erikson can be seen in societal pressures related to career choices, where conflicting values of personal happiness and societal prestige often collide. A socially sanctioned role such as a teacher provides positive support, as society's recognition and appreciation for this role often motivates teachers to be more effective in their profession.

Step 1: Understanding Erikson's Theory

Erik Erikson was a developmental psychologist who theorized that individuals go through eight stages of social development throughout their lifetimes, each presenting a crisis that must be resolved. He often highlighted how the pressures and expectations of society often conflicted with the individual's own self-development.

Step 2: Contradictory values in society - Step 1

Let's look at career choices as an example that embodies Erikson's belief in societal contradictions. In many societies, we are told that we should pursue a career that we're passionate about and that makes us happy. This is one societal value.

Step 3: Contradictory values in society - Step 2

At the same time, there's a simultaneous societal expectation that one should choose a career that is prestigious and high-paying, regardless of personal interest or job satisfaction. This is the contradictory societal value as it often conflicts with the first value of choosing a career based on individual passion and happiness.

Step 4: Understanding Socially Sanctioned Roles

Socially sanctioned roles refer to the roles that society accepts and validates, prescribing the behaviors and responsibilities expected from individuals in these roles.

Step 5: Positive Support of Socially Sanctioned Roles - Step 1

Consider the role of a teacher, which is a socially sanctioned role across cultural and geographical boundaries. Society appreciates and supports teachers, understanding the crucial role they play in shaping future generations.

Step 6: Positive Support of Socially Sanctioned Roles - Step 2

The respect and admiration given to teachers often motivates them to perform better and have a positive impact on their students, showing the positive support provided by this socially sanctioned role.

Key Concepts

Societal Expectations

Societal expectations play a significant role in shaping our decisions and actions. These are the unwritten rules and norms that society places on individuals, which can vary greatly depending on cultural and geographical context. For example, people are often encouraged to pursue prestigious careers such as doctors or lawyers because society values these roles.

However, these expectations can sometimes clash with personal desires and interests. This can create an internal conflict when choosing a career path, as one might feel compelled to follow societal values over personal satisfaction. Such expectations can pressure individuals to adhere to an ideal that may not align with their authentic self. Understanding these dynamics helps to navigate personal choices in a way that balances societal pressure with self-interest.

• Cultural Influence: Expectations often differ across cultures, influencing our values and behavior.
• Norms and Rules: These shape our sense of duty and responsibility in society.

Developmental Psychology

Developmental psychology is the study of how humans grow and change throughout their lives. Erik Erikson's theory is a key part of this field. He proposed that we develop through eight stages, each characterized by a specific crisis that must be resolved for healthy development.

Erikson believed that these stages present psychological conflicts arising from the interplay between societal expectations and individual needs. For example, during the "Identity vs. Role Confusion" stage in adolescence, individuals struggle to find a personal identity while meeting societal expectations. Successfully navigating these stages leads to greater personal development and mental health.

• The Stages: Each stage represents a fundamental challenge that is essential to personal growth.
• Impact of Society: Society influences how these stages are experienced and resolved.

Social Roles

Social roles are the expectations and behaviors associated with a particular societal position or identity. These roles are often predetermined by society, offering guidelines on how one should behave and interact in specific situations. For instance, parental roles often involve responsibilities such as caregiving, nurturing, and financial support.

Socially sanctioned roles are those which society endorses and rewards. These roles, like that of a teacher, are considered crucial for societal functioning and are often accompanied by societal support. Such support can enhance an individual's performance and satisfaction in their role.

• Role Significance: Social roles are key to maintaining societal order and coherence.
• Support Systems: Society often provides the resources and encouragement needed to fulfill these roles effectively.

Career Choices

Career choices are pivotal decisions that can influence an individual's lifestyle, identity, and personal satisfaction. In modern society, career choices often reflect the personal and societal values at play. People are frequently encouraged to find a balance between pursuing a career that fulfills their personal interests and one that meets societal expectations.

This dual expectation can become a significant source of stress. One may feel torn between choosing a vocation loved and valued for its intrinsic interest and choosing one perceived as respectable for its financial and societal rewards. Therefore, career choices are not just personal decisions but also reflections of the social roles and expectations imposed by society.

• Passion vs. Prestige: Balancing personal passion with societal ideals.
• Lifestyle Impacts: Choices that can shape one's daily life, identity, and social interactions.