According to Erikson, which task is to be accomplished during adulthood?

In Erikson's psychosocial development theory, the task associated with adulthood is fundamentally about forming intimate relationships and balancing personal needs with social connections. The stage of "Intimacy vs. Isolation" occurs during young adulthood and focuses on the ability to forge deep, meaningful relationships. Successfully navigating this stage allows individuals to build intimate partnerships, friendships, and fulfill personal connections, which are crucial for emotional well-being.

Failure to achieve intimacy can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, impacting one's ability to connect with others. Thus, this stage underscores the importance of emotional bonds and the challenges individuals may face in developing these close relationships. It is a critical phase that shapes one’s social life and identity as an adult, laying the groundwork for future stages of development, particularly in establishing a sense of community and contributing to society.

In contrast, the other stages mentioned represent different periods of life: "Trust vs. Mistrust" pertains to infancy, "Integrity vs. Despair" relates to old age, and "Identity vs. Role Confusion" focuses on adolescence. Each of these stages builds upon the outcomes of previous ones and serves as a foundation for the subsequent psychosocial challenges that individuals will face throughout their lives.