What are some contributions Erikson's work had for the field of developmental studies?

1. Erikson's work is intuitively sensible enough, and he was the first to recognise the ROLE that identity formation plays in becoming a productive, happy, adult. 2. In addition, it helped focus on our NEED for relatedness, the innate need to feel loved, connected to, and respected by other people (Deci & Ryan, 2008; Moller, Deci, & Elliot, 2010; Pavey, Greitemeyer, & Sparks, 2010). 3. It also helps OFFER EXPLANATIONS for problems encountered in classrooms. For example, a student, Sean, is feeling that the other students are "out to get him" so he acts out. This may suggest that Sean hasn't positively resolved the trust-distrust crisis. This has left him less able to develop a sense of autonomy, initiative, or industry, which helps us understand why it's affecting his academic work. We've all met people we admire because of their positive outlook, openness, and commitment to making the world better (Prof. Gana). We've also encountered those who believe that others are trying to take advantage of them or are somehow inherently evil (Ezra). We see good minds sliding into lethargy because of a lack of initiative or even substance abuse (Past Self). We become frustrated by people's apathy and lack of zest for living (Xaith). Erikson's theory helps us understand these issues.