How Does Morrie Use Erikson Theories

Life is a journey, there is a beginning and there is an end. There is a story to each of our lives, stages that we have experienced that shape who we are. Although we are faced with obstacles, lessons can be learned to ultimately challenge our ability to embrace life and see the purpose to live it. Tuesday’s with Morrie tells the life story of Morrie, although he is faced with a terminal illness of ALS he embraces his fate and inspires others to find happiness and learn from the lessons he has gathered throughout his life. Morrie finds solitude in his former student Mitch, who he tells his lessons to for not just him but for others to learn and motivate them. Through Morrie, there can be examples of Erikson’s psychosocial theory such as Identity
The topic of family and marriage was discussed as a part of his lessons with Mitch, Erikson’s theory was evident in the Intimacy vs. Isolation stage. This stage pertains to young adulthood, as a person seeks to make commitments to others is unsuccessful may suffer from isolation (Papalia & Martorell, 2015). Morrie discusses the importance of family as he states, “The fact is, there is no foundation, no secure ground, upon which people may stand today if it isn’t the family” (Albom, 1997, p. 91). Since his diagnosis with ALS, he explains that the support and love from his family is important and is all that he will ever need. Morrie’s lesson on marriage means that he has fulfilled the stage of Intimacy vs. Isolation. Morrie explains to Mitch that marriage is important and everyone should experience having a real loving relationship (Albom, 1997). The most prevalent advice from the lesson on marriage given to Mitch explains there are going to be difficulties it is just important to respect each other, compromise is crucial, open communication and similar values. The most important of the values Morrie states, “Your belief in the importance of your marriage” (Albom, 1997, p. 149). These lessons given to Mitch, give the wisdom of Morrie’s commitment and love to his family. There is also an importance of the love his family gives to him
According to Erikson’s theory, Morrie’s acceptance of his fate is prevalent through the Integrity vs. Despair stage. This stage occurs during late adulthood and describes a older adult achieving acceptance of own life and death or else finds despair over inability to relive life (Papalia & Martorell, 2015). In the discussion with Mitch on death, Morrie found no issue as it was first on his list. Morrie’s wisdom tells to accept death and begin to appreciate life and be more involved in it. As Morrie states, “To know you’re going to die, and be better prepared for it at any time, That way you can actually be more involved in your life while you’re living” (Albom, 1997, p. 81). Morrie’s acceptance of his fate details his strength as he uses emotions as a way to deal with the illness. He gives Mitch a lesson on emotions, detachment is a method Morrie uses to deal with dying. Detachment to Morrie means to not allow yourself into the emotions fully being able to experience moments without the feelings the emotions give you. As Morrie states, “I don’t want to leave the world in a state of fright. I want to know what’s happening, accept it, get to a peaceful place, and let go” (Albom, 1997, p. 107). These lessons on death and acceptance from Morrie detail the peace he found. Regardless of the pain and suffering he felt he still was there to impact and influence others