Erik Erikson presented eight stages of human development, which last throughout life. During each stage of development, each developmental task represents a catastrophe for the individual. Erikson defined the catastrophe as “a turning point of greater vulnerability and greater potential” (Santrock 73). Each of Erikson's developmental stages is presented in such a way that the negative and positive aspects are clearly defined. Although there are eight developmental stages, five relate to the child's development. The first stage, which occurs during the first year of life, is labeled trust versus mistrust. Trust develops when the caregiver takes care of the child, which gives a feeling of comfort. When a child receives positive care, he will trust his caregivers, providing him with beneficial development. However, when a child does not receive positive care, mistrust develops. When a child reaches the age of one to three years old, the stage he experiences is that of autonomy over shame and doubt. When a child or newborn gains trust in those who care for him, he realizes that his behavior is his own (cccc73). In this stage, children discover and learn new concepts and tasks on a daily basis. Because learning and independence are important at this age, parental restraint can hinder development and make the child feel a sense of shame or doubt. When a child enters preschool age, Erikson's third phase, the initiative against guilt, becomes present. During this stage, children are developing socially and “need to engage in active, purposeful behavior that involves initiative” (Santrock 74). With a larger social world comes greater responsibilities, especially behavior… middle of paper… issues of independence and self-control. Children raised in a neglectful environment are not motivated by achievement, so academically they may suffer. Indulgent parenting is the last type of parenting, in which parents are extremely involved in a child's life but few limitations are placed. Due to very few limitations and great parental involvement, a child is more inclined to be creative and independent, but suffers socially and lacks the ability to maintain self-control (78). Commonly used types of parenting greatly influence students both positively and positively. and negative ways. Each parenting style has its disadvantages, however a happy balance between involvement and control leads to a socially competent and well-rounded child. Works Cited Santrock, John W. Life-span Development. Twelve ed. Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2009. Print.