Topic: The Physcosocial Crisis of Initiative

Focus: Erik Erikson & Psychosocial Development

Analyze Erikson’s third stage of psychosocial development: Initiative vs. Guilt. Discuss the delicate balance a preschooler must maintain between the desire to plan and execute actions (initiative) and the moral anxiety that arises when those actions violate rules or fail (guilt). Construct a narrative illustrating how a “good enough” parent or educator can foster a sense of purpose in a child during this stage. Specifically, address how excessive criticism or control during these years might lead to long-term inhibition or a lack of self-confidence in adulthood.

Formatting Guidelines

• Length: Strictly 10 sentences.
• Tone: Academic and objective. Avoid colloquialisms.
• Citations: Ensure that specific theories or terms (e.g.. conservation, scaffolding. theory of mind) are used correctly in context. Use APA (American Psychological Association) Style format.

1. Use 7th Edition APA Style & Guidelines (American Psychological Association).
2. Write a 10-sentence journal entry on the given topic.
3. Provide one reference other than your textbook using APA Style reference. (Peer-reviewed journals or articles, books, Professional research papers, videos, or verifiable legitimate academic publications) DO not use only the www references! Google the APA 7th Edition Manual to learn how to write APA Style, your journal entry, and learn how to write APA Style references.

Many students submitted a reference list without including in-text citations. Remember that all claims or ideas taken from course materials or research must include in-text citations, and both the in-text citations and reference list must follow APA format.

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2. File Format

All journal assignments must be submitted as a Word document (doc or .docx). Files that cannot be opened will receive a grade of 0.

3. Following the Prompt

It is important to answer every aspect of the assignment and connect your reflection to the course readings or research.

4. Writing Style: Treating a Journal Like an Academic Paragraph or Research Summary

A common mistake is writing the journal as if it were a formal academic paragraph or research summary. Journal entries should be reflective and personal, not just a summary of facts or research. Journals allow you to explain what you learned and why it matters to you, while still supporting your ideas with APA-cited research. The key differences between journal entry and academic writing are: