Erik Erikson's theory of life-span psychosocial development is one of the most prominent in all of human development. As described in this chart, Erikson's theory consists of a set of eight tasks or conflicts. According to the theory, each task must be resolved in a satisfactory manner for the individual to advance to the next stage. The following song summarizes Erikson's theory.

Eight Life Stages to Accomplish (Erikson’s Theory)
Lyrics by Alan Reifman
(May be sung to the tune of “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover,” Paul Simon)

Erikson’s theory, covering the full life span,
How one becomes, the fullest person that they can,
You’ve got to proceed, in accordance with this plan,
It gives you, eight life stages to accomplish,

The first four stages, occur during one’s childhood,
Developing trust and autonomy, one should,
Next come initiative and industry, both are good,
It gives you, eight life stages to accomplish,
Eight life stages to accomplish,

Trust your folks will be there, Claire,
Learn you’re unique, Pete,
Can you satisfy each stage,
As you pass through each age?
Show that you’re able, Mabel,
Interact with your world, Earl,
Can you satisfy each stage,
As you pass through each age?

The last four stages, over decades they are strung,
From adolescence, till your years are nearly done,
You become an adult – and then you guide the young,
Then it’s just reflection,

During the teenage years, you seek your inner core,
You form relationships, much deeper than before,
And then at midlife, you start to share your lore,
There’s not much more, of the stages to complete,
The eight life stages to accomplish,

Form your identity, Lee,
Learn how to relate, Kate,
Can you satisfy each stage,
As you pass through each age?
Teach your children, Ben,
Be life-content, Kent,
Can you satisfy each stage,
As you pass through each age?