Which Eriksonian stage is associated with the ego virtue of Love?

• A. Intimacy vs Isolation
• B. Industry vs Inferiority
• C. Identity vs Role Confusion
• D. Generativity vs Stagnation

Answer: (A)

In Erikson’s framework, each stage pairs a psychosocial crisis with an ego virtue. The stage that centers on forming close, meaningful relationships in young adulthood is intimacy vs isolation, and the associated virtue is Love. This isn’t just romantic love; it’s the capacity to open up, trust, commit, and maintain deep connections with others. When this crisis is successfully resolved, a person develops the ability to form lasting, supportive bonds; if not, isolation and fear of closeness can dominate. The other stages listed map to different virtues—Industry vs Inferiority relates to competence, Identity vs Role Confusion to fidelity, and Generativity vs Stagnation to care—so the stage linked to Love is the intimacy vs isolation stage.