Final answer:
The outcomes of the maturity stage of Ego vs. Despair are characterized by a sense of integrity for those who feel accomplishment and pride in their life's work, and despair for those with regret and bitterness over missed opportunities and perceived failures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Outcomes of Maturity Stage: Ego vs. Despair
During the final stage of Erik Erikson's developmental stages, known as late adulthood, which spans from the mid-60s to the end of life, individuals face the task of finding a balance between integrity and despair. This stage, characterized as integrity vs. despair, involves reflecting on one's life achievements and experiences. Those who succeed in resolving this conflict feel a sense of accomplishment and pride, understanding their life contributions as meaningful, which results in integrity. These individuals are able to look back on their lives with few regrets, often taking the opportunity to engage in new activities, embrace creativity, and find peace in preparing for the end of life.
Conversely, those who struggle with this task may face despair. This negative outcome is associated with feelings of regret, bitterness, and depression, stemming from a focus on missed opportunities and perceived failures. The unsuccessful resolution of this stage leads to a sense that life has been wasted, alongside fear and sadness as individuals confront the end of their lives with a lack of fulfillment.
Erikson's theory emphasizes the importance of resolving each developmental conflict to achieve a healthy personality and sense of competence. The late adult stage challenges individuals to reassess their lives and derive meaning from their life-long contributions, which is essential for psychological well-being.