When is ego integrity achieved?

Ego integrity is a concept that refers to the comprehensive feeling of fulfillment and satisfaction that individuals achieve when they reflect upon their lives and accept the choices they have made. This stage is often discussed in the context of Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, particularly in the later stages of life.

Accepting past choices allows individuals to come to terms with their experiences, whether they were positive or negative. This reflective process enables them to feel a sense of wholeness and coherence in their life narrative. Those who achieve ego integrity experience less regret and more acceptance of their life, fostering a sense of peace as they approach the end of life.

The other options do not directly align with the concept of ego integrity. While social relationships can contribute to overall well-being, they are not the primary factor in achieving ego integrity. Material success may provide temporary satisfaction but does not equate to a deep sense of fulfillment related to one's life choices. Adolescence is a stage of identity formation, not a time for individuals to reflect on and accept past choices as they typically do later in life. Thus, the acceptance of past choices is crucial for achieving ego integrity.