← Chapter 8
Human Development · Chapter 8

Peers & Self-Esteem

In middle childhood the world widens to school and peers, and three questions come to define the self: Am I capable? Who are my friends? Am I worthwhile? Explore the three forces that shape the school-age child — Erikson's industry vs. inferiority, the growth of friendship, and the domains of self-esteem.

The balance of competence

Industry vs. InferiorityErikson · stage 4 · ages 6–11