Ace the NBPTS Exceptional Needs Specialist Challenge 2026 – Elevate Your Expertise and Shine!

Erikson's Stage 6, known as Intimacy vs. Isolation, is a critical developmental phase that occurs during young adulthood, generally from the ages of 18 to 40. This stage emphasizes the importance of forming deep, meaningful relationships, particularly romantic partnerships, which contribute to an individual's sense of connectedness and well-being. Successfully navigating this stage involves establishing close relationships that promote intimacy, emotional sharing, and mutual support.

Individuals who successfully engage in this stage are likely to experience close, loving relationships, while those who struggle may feel isolated and disconnected from others. Romantic relationships during this period not only provide personal satisfaction and companionship but also serve as a foundation for future commitments, such as marriage and family life. Thus, the focus on establishing romantic relationships is a key component of this developmental stage.

The other choices reflect different developmental focuses that are not the primary concern of this stage. For instance, childhood friendships and trust in authority figures pertain more to earlier stages of development. In contrast, learning new skills for independence might connect more closely with late adolescence but does not encapsulate the essence of intimacy versus isolation.