In Erikson's theory, the central influence on personality is

• A. Biological maturation
• B. Social interactions
• C. Cognitive development
• D. Cultural norms

Answer: (B)

Erikson’s theory centers personality on social interactions across the whole lifespan. He teaches that ongoing relationships and the social world provide the experiences through which people navigate eight psychosocial crises, from trust in infancy to integrity in old age. How these crises are managed through interactions with caregivers, peers, partners, and society shapes a person’s sense of self, identity, and functioning over time. That relational, social process is what drives personality development in his framework.

Biological maturation focuses on physical timing and growth, which Erikson doesn’t place at the heart of personality formation. Cognitive development is about changes in thinking and reasoning, a domain tied to other theories. Cultural norms matter as part of the social context, but Erikson specifically emphasizes the impact of interactive experiences and relationships in shaping who we become.