According to Erikson, what is a key feature of the intimacy vs. isolation stage?

In Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, the intimacy vs. isolation stage typically occurs in young adulthood, roughly between the ages of 18 and 40. The hallmark of this stage is the individual's ability to form meaningful and lasting relationships while also maintaining a sense of self.

Choosing to focus on learning to give and take while maintaining identity reflects the balance that one must achieve when developing intimate relationships. A healthy connection requires both partners to support one another while preserving their individuality. This duality is crucial, as individuals must not lose their personal identity in the quest for closeness and companionship. Strong relationships enable growth and mutual support, underscoring the importance of actualized intimacy rather than merely merging identities.

The other options suggest scenarios that can occur in relationships but do not capture the essential dynamic of the intimacy vs. isolation stage as well. For instance, giving up personal identity for a relationship implies a lack of balance, which leads toward isolation rather than intimacy. Struggling to balance work and personal life speaks more to time management and work-life integration rather than the specific dynamics of intimate relationships. Lastly, a focus on individual achievement relates more to earlier stages of development where personal identity is being established, rather than the relational emphasis of this stage.