Chapter 8: Problem 5

(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.

Short Answer

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Part (a): Society often encourages us to be ambitious and successful, but at the same time it also urges us to give importance to family life. These dual expectations create a contradiction as they both demand major investment in terms of time and emotional commitment. Part (b): The socially sanctioned role of a teacher is often associated with respect and authority, which can offer positive reinforcement, leading to better performance and dedication.

Step by step solution

Understanding Erikson's theory

Review Erik Erikson's theories. Erikson proposed a psychosocial theory stating that an individual's personality develops through a series of stages, with each stage characterized by a crisis that needs to be resolved. He believed that societal values sometimes put individuals in situations where they have to adopt contradictory roles.

Generating a real-life example for part (a)

Identify an example where society stresses contradictory values. For instance, society often encourages people to be ambitious and successful, which may require considerable time and dedication. Yet simultaneously, the same society encourages individuals to focus on family, which also needs time and dedication. This situation creates a contradiction as both roles demand significant investment in terms of time and emotional attachment.

Understanding Socially Sanctioned Roles

Socially sanctioned roles are the responsibilities or behaviors that society expects from individuals during certain situations. These roles can provide support as they outline the expected or acceptable behavior.

Generating a real-life example for part (b)

Identify an example where a socially sanctioned role provides positive support. For instance, in the case of a teacher, society provides this role with respect and authority. This could encourage better performance and dedication as there's acceptance and recognition of their efforts in teaching.

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(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.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Erikson's theory

Generating a real-life example for part (a)

Understanding Socially Sanctioned Roles

Generating a real-life example for part (b)

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