The epigenetic principle holds that individuals grow in a sequence over time in the context of a larger community.

Freud's theory dealt with what he saw as psychosexual—rather than psychosocial—stages of development.

Successfully dealing with the conflict is what allows the individual to come out of that stage a stronger person.

Erikson believed that learning to control bodily functions is a key component of developing independence.

Research has not only found supporting evidence for his theories but also identified sub-stages of identity formation.

Unlike Erikson, Freud's theory is primarily focused on events occurring up to puberty.

Stage 5 is critical in the development of personal identity.