Erik H. Erikson (1902 - 1994) is undoubtedly one of the most prominent psychoanalysts of the last century. He expanded upon Sigmund Freud's stage theory by incorporating psychosocial aspects and the developmental phases of adulthood. Erikson posits that individuals go through eight developmental stages throughout their lives, which are laid out in an internal developmental plan. At each stage, resolving the relevant crisis in the form of integrating opposing poles that represent developmental tasks is necessary. Successfully addressing these tasks is crucial for the subsequent phases. For Erikson, crisis is not a negatively charged term, but rather a state that, when constructively resolved, leads to further development and integrates these solutions into one's self-image.