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The strengths a young person finds in adults at this…

“The strengths a young person finds in adults at this time-their willingness to let him experiment, their eagerness to confirm him at his best, their consistency in correcting his excesses, and the guidance they give him-will codetermine whether or not he eventually makes order out of necessary…” quote by Erik Erikson
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“The strengths a young person finds in adults at this time-their willingness to let him experiment, their eagerness to confirm him at his best, their consistency in correcting his excesses, and the guidance they give him-will codetermine whether or not he eventually makes order out of necessary inner confusion and applies himself to the correction of disordered conditions. He needs freedom to choose, but not so much freedom that he cannot, in fact, make a choice.”

Erik Erikson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Adults’ supportive actions shape a youth’s ability to manage inner chaos and develop self‑discipline.

In simple terms: Guidance and limits help youth grow.

Key Takeaway

Provide balanced freedom and mentorship.

Themes

development guidance self‑discipline

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

theoretical educational

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • teaching
  • coaching
  • team leadership

Key Concepts

psychology identity formation mentoring

Questions to Reflect On

  • What limits foster responsibility?
  • How can mentors balance freedom and direction?
A Different Perspective

Too much freedom can lead to aimlessness.

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