Individual psychology is the holistic developmental approach proposed by Alfred Adler. Both nature and nurture hold less importance than the process of "becoming" through striving toward individual goals. Differences between the real and ideal selves cause normal feelings of inferiority. As pointed out by Harold Mosak, such differences can lead to a pathological inferiority complex.

Adler saw social influence as the key to early development. Growing up, children learn to master their surroundings and seek significance by acting on conclusions (healthy or otherwise) derived from the family constellation. If the early environment is deficient, therapy can help create the trust and love that are lacking.

Like Freud, Erikson explained human development with stage theory, but proposed a progression through eight psychosocial stages over a lifetime. Problems inherent to each stage must be resolved before maturing into the next.

The first five stages closely follow Freud's, but in a social context. The last three extend through adulthood to old age, parts of life not included in Freudian developmental theory.

Erikson's life stages, defined by their psychological conflicts and crises:

1. Trust vs. mistrust (birth through the first year of life)

2. Autonomy vs. shame and doubt (ages 1 to 3)

3. Initiation vs. guilt (ages 4 to 6)

4. Industry vs. inferiority (ages 6 to 12)

5. Identity vs. role confusion (ages 12 to 20)

6. Intimacy vs. isolation (ages 20 to 40)

7. Generativity vs. stagnation (middle age, about 40 to 65)

8. Ego integrity vs. despair (old age)