What key aspect is developed in the "Integrity vs. Despair" stage?

In the "Integrity vs. Despair" stage, which is the final stage of Erik Erikson's psychosocial development theory, individuals reflect on their lives and evaluate their experiences. This stage typically occurs in late adulthood, where the key aspect revolves around life reflection and acceptance. During this time, older adults look back on their lives and assess whether they feel fulfilled and satisfied with their accomplishments and the choices they made, leading to a sense of integrity.

When individuals experience integrity, they tend to accept their life as it has been, feeling a sense of peace regarding their existence. Conversely, if they have regrets or a sense of unfulfilled potential, they may experience despair, grappling with feelings of disappointment or bitterness. This stage emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and coming to terms with one’s life narrative, ultimately influencing their emotional well-being and outlook as they face the end of life.