According to Erik Erikson, industry refers to a stage of development that occurs during childhood, specifically between the ages of 6 and 12 years, a period he terms the ‘latency stage.’ During this phase, children are focused on mastering skills, tasks, and social interactions. They become industrious as they learn to navigate their environment, take on new challenges, and gain a sense of competence.
In Erikson’s psychosocial development theory, the key conflict faced during this stage is ‘industry vs. inferiority.’ Children strive to develop a sense of pride in their accomplishments and abilities. When they succeed, they feel industrious and are motivated to keep learning and interacting. On the other hand, if they receive negative feedback or fail to achieve, they may develop feelings of inferiority, which can impact their self-esteem and motivation.
Thus, fostering an environment where children can explore their interests and develop their skills is crucial. Encouragement from parents and teachers plays a vital role in helping them gain a sense of industry and build confidence.