Following Erik Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development has led us to early adulthood. Each of the eight stages highlights a psychosocial conflict that influences personality development and early adulthood is no different. You may think that play has nothing to do with this stage, but as we explore these concepts, I’ll also reframe what “play” looks like in the adult world and highlight how childhood experiences can significantly impact development in adulthood.
Understanding the Early Adulthood Stage
The early adulthood stage generally begins in late adolescence and ends in the mid-40s. During this time, Erikson posits that the primary focus becomes building strong relationships and connections, stemming from the strong sense of self that was formed in the adolescent stage. A well-developed sense of identity allows young adults to enter relationships without losing themselves, creating the foundation for true intimacy rather than dependency or avoidance. With a strong sense of identity, young adults focus on deeper, more intimate bonds based on mutual trust and respect.
Those who put themselves out there, prioritizing openness and commitment, often thrive when building intimate relationships in this stage. However, those who experience a fear of rejection or perhaps have not formed a strong sense of identity in adolescence may struggle with feelings of isolation if they are unable to form strong connections. Isolation can compound into estrangement, avoidance, and even depression if left unattended.
Rethinking Play for Adults
Play is experienced much differently in the early adulthood stage than in previous stages. While creativity is still present, adult play is less concrete and more symbolic in nature. It often shows up through humor, emotional risk-taking, metaphors, and imagination rather than traditional forms of play. When forming intimate bonds, these expressions of play become especially important. Flexibility, curiosity, vulnerability, and connection are all required in this process, and each is essential for developing and maintaining intimacy.
It is important to note that these same ideals of play are needed for self-connection as well. If you do not feel close to your sense of self or able to “play” without judgment, you are more at risk for emotional and physical isolation. In other words, you have to form an emotionally strong bond to yourself before extending it to another person.
Early Play’s Influence
As you may recall, I mentioned in previous blogs how play therapy will influence your child in the future. Well, this is it. Struggles in the adulthood stages can often be connected back to insecure attachments and a lack of play opportunities as a child. Without play or play therapy, adult relational patterns can reflect early childhood experiences and patterns. In other words, this is one way generational trauma can be formed. Play teaches so many valuable skills and concepts, ranging from independence to emotional safety. Navigating the world as a child without such skills is challenging; doing the same as an adult is a nightmare. But it is never too late! Embrace your inner child! Heal the wounds of your past and tap into the sense of self that may have been hiding all along.
If you need guidance in this area, please feel free to reach out!
