During which stage do individuals typically experience Intimacy vs. Isolation?

The stage of Intimacy vs. Isolation typically occurs during young adulthood, roughly between the ages of 18 and 40. This is a critical period where individuals focus on forming intimate, loving relationships with others. It is during this time that they seek to create deep connections and establish significant bonds, which can lead to commitments such as marriage or long-term partnerships. Successfully navigating this stage results in strong relationships and a sense of connection, while failure can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

The other age ranges do not accurately depict this critical developmental stage as defined by Erik Erikson's psychosocial development theory. The age span of 15 to 25 tends to overlap with adolescence, where individuals are more concerned with identity formation than with intimate relationships. The wider range of 20 to 35 doesn't fully encapsulate the essence of young adulthood as focused on by Erikson. Similarly, the range of 16 to 30 also includes developmental aspects more aligned with adolescence and early adulthood, rather than the broader phase of intimacy that Erikson describes. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the stage where the pursuit of deep connections becomes paramount, supporting emotional and relational growth.