I have learned that adult development occurs in different ways. Erickson believes that personal development occurs in a series of psycho-social stages and should occur within a specific time frame. Levinson also believes that development occurs in stages, but the biggest contrast with Erickson is that these stages are determined by chronological age. Lastly, Havighurst views human development as a series of tasks that occur during different age ranges or time frames. These three psychologists offer similar theories as to what motivates students. Teachers of different age groups will benefit from understanding the importance of reaching various stages of development and understanding how to help students who were not able to surpass the milestones.
