intimacy vs. isolation

Meaning: In Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory, development proceeds through eight stages, each defined by a conflict between two outcomes. Intimacy vs. isolation is stage 6, in young adulthood (about 18 to 40). Having formed an identity in adolescence, the person can now share it with others in deep, committed relationships such as romantic partnerships and close friendships. Successful resolution yields the virtue of love. Unsuccessful resolution leads to isolation, loneliness and fear of commitment. Erikson held that a secure sense of identity is needed first, because a person unsure of who they are may fear losing themselves in a relationship.

On the MCAT: Questions give a vignette, such as a 28-year-old who avoids commitment or is building a lasting partnership, and ask which stage or conflict applies. You may also be asked to order the stages. Know the neighbors: identity vs. role confusion (adolescence) comes before it, and generativity vs. stagnation (middle adulthood) comes after it.

Common confusion: Students mix this stage up with identity vs. role confusion. Identity is about establishing who you are and comes first, while intimacy is about merging that identity with another person's. Also, the stage is not about romance only: close friendships count. Erikson's stages are tied to age ranges, but these ranges are approximate, unlike a strict timetable.