Describe some criticisms levied against Erikson's psychosocial theory of development.

Developmental theorists have taken issue with Erikson's work on 4 major points: 1. First, they content that his theory doesn't adequately address the ROLE OF CULTURE in development, which is indeed an important influence in all forms of development (Cole & Cagigas, 2010; Cole & Packer, 2011). For instance, some cultures DISCOURAGE autonomy, initiative, and self-assertiveness in children, instead emphasising on a collective sense of belonging and concern for others (Chen & Eisenberg, 2012). 2. Second, critics point out that Erikson based his theory primarily on his work with MALES, and research suggest that females may take different paths to identity development (DiDonato & Berenbaum, 2013; Gilligan, 1977, 1982, 1998). 3. Third, Erikson based his theory on his personal notes and experiences dealing with clients, and his theory is DIFFICULT TO VALIDATE empirically. Also his work is grounded in the time in which he lived and practice, and it may not accurately explain development changes influenced by our current society and level of technology, which is quite different. 4. Fourth, the dichotomy of Erikson's eight life-span stages may have more factors influencing it than Erikson had accounted for because CONCURRENT crises may occur in each stage and it doesn't necessarily follow a specific sequence. For example, who's to say that a young adult cannot have integrity in her/his leadership roles, described by Erikson to be a crisis occurring in old age. Further, what about teenagers who attend and volunteer at Youth United Nations events believing that they are making contributions to society and future generations; aren't they displaying generativity contradicting Erikson describing it to occur only in adulthood?