Final answer:
The final stage of human psychological development, according to Erikson's theory, is called 'integrity versus despair' and occurs in late adulthood. It involves reflecting on one's life and leads to either a sense of fulfillment or regret based on the perceived success or failure of resolving life's challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The final stage of human psychological development is often referred to as integrity versus despair, which is a part of Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development. This stage occurs during late adulthood, beginning in the mid-60s and continuing to the end of life. According to Erikson, individuals at this stage reflect on their life experiences and accomplishments, leading to a feeling of satisfaction and integrity, or alternatively, to feelings of failure and despair. Success in this stage results in a sense of wholeness and fulfillment, whereas failure can result in regret and emotional discomfort.
Erikson's view on self-development was that personality continues to evolve over time and is greatly influenced by our interactions with others, contrasting with Freud’s idea that personality is largely formed in childhood. Erikson proposed eight stages of development, each with its unique conflict or task, with the last stage involving the reflection on one's life and the development of a sense of psychological well-being or disappointment.