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• If the task is not achieved, the person may feel frustrated, insecure, or face
difficulties in later stages.
For example, learning to walk is a development task in early childhood. Forming close
relationships is a development task in early adulthood.
(a) Development Tasks of Middle Childhood (6–12 years)
Middle childhood is the stage when children move beyond the family circle and enter the
world of school, peers, and society. It’s a time of learning, socialization, and building
confidence.
Key Development Tasks:
1. Learning Skills and Knowledge
o Children must master basic academic skills like reading, writing, and
arithmetic.
o These skills build the foundation for future education.
2. Developing Social Relationships
o Making friends, learning teamwork, and understanding social rules are
crucial.
o Example: Playing group games teaches cooperation and fairness.
3. Building Self-Confidence
o Success in school and play helps children develop a sense of competence.
o Failure may lead to feelings of inferiority.
4. Learning Moral Values
o Children begin to understand right and wrong, fairness, and responsibility.
o Example: Following classroom rules or helping peers.
5. Developing Independence
o Children start doing tasks on their own—like homework, chores, or hobbies.
o This builds responsibility and self-reliance.
6. Physical Development
o Growth in strength and coordination allows participation in sports and
physical activities.
o Example: Learning to ride a bicycle or play cricket.
Why It Matters:
Middle childhood is like laying bricks for a building. Each skill—academic, social, moral—
adds to the structure of personality. If children succeed here, they enter adolescence with
confidence and resilience.
(b) Development Tasks of Early Adulthood (20–40 years)
Early adulthood is the stage of independence, responsibility, and building one’s own life. It’s
a time when individuals step out of the protective circle of family and begin to establish
careers, relationships, and identities.