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Chapter 8: Problem 11

A terrorist blows up a building in a hated foreign country. How might Erikson explain the ter rorist's behavior?

Short Answer

Expert verified
According to Erikson's theory, the terrorist's actions can potentially be explained by unresolved crises in his developmental stages. For example, he might be stuck in the 'Identity vs. Role Confusion' stage, using terrorism as a way to establish a clear identity, or he could be in the 'Generativity vs. Stagnation' stage, using destructive acts as a warped way of making a mark on the world.

Step by step solution

01

Identify Relevant Stage

Firstly, identify the most relevant stages of Erikson's psychosocial theory that could explain the terrorist's behavior. Depending on his age and development, some of the later stages could be more relevant, specifically 'Identity vs. Role Confusion,' 'Intimacy vs. Isolation,' or 'Generativity vs. Stagnation.' Each of these stages might give insights into his actions.
02

Analyze Behavioral Patterns

Next, analyze the terrorist's behavior using the selected stage(s). For example, if the 'Identity vs. Role Confusion' stage is chosen, it could be argued that the terrorist may be trying to establish a strong identity and define himself through his actions. He might feel a lack of belonging or identity and the act of terrorism could be an extreme attempt to define his identity and role in society.
03

Explain the Motivations

Lastly, use the insights gained from Erikson's theory to explain potential motivations for the terrorist's behavior. This might entail discussing how failures or struggles in earlier stages of development can lead to destructive actions, or how societal pressures and external factors could drive an individual to such extreme actions.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

(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.

How might a person who compulsively strives for fame and glory (perhaps even Erikson himself), and is not satisfied even with significant achievements, use personality theories to make better decisions and live a more fulfilling life?

Does a healthy personality have no basic mistrust at all? Why or why not?

Give an example from real life or from fiction to illustrate identity confusion.

Erikson regards mutuality as the ideal form of interpersonal relationship. What societal influences make it more difficult for us to develop mutuality?
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