Scenario-Based Questions with Answers: Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory

Scenario-Based Questions with Answers: Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory

Scenario 1: Industry vs. Inferiority

Situation:
A 9-year-old student struggles with math and says, “I’m just not good at this; I’ll never get it.”

Question:
As a teacher, how would you respond to support the student’s psychosocial development?

Answer / Recommended Strategy:

• Provide small, achievable tasks and scaffold learning.

• Give positive reinforcement for effort, not just results.

• Celebrate progress and effort to build confidence.

• Encourage peer support or cooperative learning.

Concept Connection: Industry vs. Inferiority – building competence and self-esteem.

Scenario 2: Identity vs. Role Confusion

Situation:
A 13-year-old student is unsure whether to join the drama club or the sports team and seems anxious about peer acceptance.

Question:
What strategies can help the student explore interests and develop confidence?

Answer / Recommended Strategy:

• Encourage exploration of multiple interests.

• Affirm the student’s strengths and preferences.

• Provide mentoring opportunities to guide decision-making.

• Support self-reflection on interests and goals.

Concept Connection: Identity vs. Role Confusion – supporting self-exploration and decision-making.

Scenario 3: Industry vs. Inferiority – Group Work

Situation:
During a group project, a student feels left out and says, “I can’t do anything right in this group.”

Question:
How can you foster competence and inclusion?

Answer / Recommended Strategy:

• Assign clear roles to ensure participation.

• Recognize individual contributions publicly.

• Teach collaboration and social skills.

• Provide guidance and encouragement throughout the activity.

Concept Connection: Industry vs. Inferiority – promoting skill mastery and inclusion.

Scenario 4: Identity vs. Role Confusion – Peer Pressure

Situation:
A 14-year-old student hesitates to participate because friends tease them for asking questions.

Question:
How can you support the student’s social and emotional development?

Answer / Recommended Strategy:

• Foster a safe, respectful classroom environment.

• Use positive reinforcement for participation.

• Discuss peer pressure and self-expression openly.

• Implement cooperative learning strategies to reduce fear of judgment.

Concept Connection: Identity vs. Role Confusion – building self-confidence and independence.

Scenario 5: Mixed Stages

Situation:
A student performs well academically but is socially withdrawn and unsure about making friends.

Question:
Which psychosocial concepts are relevant, and what interventions could a teacher apply?

Answer / Recommended Strategy:

• Relevant Stages: Industry vs. Inferiority + Identity vs. Role Confusion

• Interventions:

  • Encourage participation in group activities or clubs.

  • Provide social skills support and peer buddy systems.

  • Highlight strengths and successes in academics and behavior.

  • Model inclusive and supportive social behaviors.

Scenario 6: Industry vs. Inferiority – Feedback

Situation:
A student says, “I don’t know why I even try; I always get low grades.”

Question:
How should a teacher respond?

Answer / Recommended Strategy:

• Give constructive, specific feedback.

• Focus on effort, strategy, and improvement rather than just grades.

• Offer remedial support or additional practice.

Concept Connection: Industry vs. Inferiority – encouraging effort and skill development.

Scenario 7: Identity vs. Role Confusion – Career Exploration

Situation:
A 15-year-old asks, “I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up; I feel confused about my future.”

Question:
How can a teacher guide the student?

Answer / Recommended Strategy:

• Encourage exploration of hobbies and interests.

• Discuss possible career paths and skills needed.

• Connect the student with mentors or role models.

• Promote self-reflection and decision-making skills.

Concept Connection: Identity vs. Role Confusion – guiding self-discovery and planning.