At what stage does Erikson propose individuals confront ego integrity vs. despair?

Erikson's psychosocial development theory outlines eight stages through which a healthily developing human should pass from infancy to late adulthood. The stage of ego integrity vs. despair occurs in older adulthood, specifically for individuals aged 65 years and older. During this stage, individuals reflect on their lives and evaluate their experiences. If they feel a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction about the life they have led, they achieve ego integrity, signifying a sense of completeness and wisdom. Conversely, if they see their lives as unproductive or feel regret and disappointment, they may fall into despair. This stage is crucial as it shapes how individuals perceive their lives in the context of mortality and legacy.

The other stages listed represent different life phases, with unique developmental challenges and focuses that do not encompass the themes of reflection and fulfillment characteristic of the later years of life.