Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

What did Erikson discover about child training practices in primitive societies?

1. They are advanced and sophisticated

2. They reflect homogeneity and simple integrity

3. They promote individualism

4. They emphasize competition

The correct answer is: They reflect homogeneity and simple integrity

Erikson's exploration of child training practices in primitive societies indicates that these practices often reflect homogeneity and a sense of simple integrity. This observation highlights the communal and largely uniform approaches that such societies typically employ in raising children. Child-rearing in these contexts tends to focus on shared values, cultural consistency, and interconnectedness within the community, fostering a sense of belonging and collective identity among children. In contrast to advanced or sophisticated systems that might prioritize complexity or individual achievement, the practices observed by Erikson are more grounded in societal norms and cohesive cultural understandings. The influence of community and tradition is strong, which contributes to the overall integrity and stability of social practices. Therefore, this understanding underscores the pivotal role of cultural context in shaping child development in different societies.