Jane Loevinger believes that ego development and self identity comprised various stages ranging from the impulsive to the integrated and self-actualized. With each stage, different manifestations of behavior and personality develop; knowledge provides experience, while experience also gives us knowledge. From this knowledge we formulate our view of the self and how we see ourselves as a part of the world we live in.
Loevinger's Theory "specifies three areas: impulse control, interpersonal mode, and conscious preoccupations"(McAdams, 2006, p.371). Each of these areas comprises different traits, descriptions and feelings, and each of the associated stages of development must be mastered before progressing to the next. The Impulsive stage is self-explanatory; when a young child has a need, it demands that need be fulfilled as it deems necessary. The second stage is a little more forgiving, and although not as impulsive, the interpersonal description of being manipulative and wary tells us that a child is more aware of the consequences of certain actions.
The adolescent stage of Conformity sees a young teenager being loyal to his or her friends. At times, their friends may be far different to them, either physically or mentally, but the teen likens themselves to their friends in many ways. In contrast, this teenager is self-conscious and preoccupied with their own appearance and often concerned about how others perceive them.
The Conscientious-Conformist is a similar stage to the younger conformist, although there is more conscious attention to problem solving and adjustment procedures. This latter development is possibly the biggest difference to the former state, as it shows evidence of the individual being helpful and more considerate of others; a mature attitude.
At level 1-4 of Loevinger's Ego Development stage theory is the Conscientious individual. This person has the ability and need to demonstrate responsibility. This young adult is preoccupied with their achievements and is often self-critical, but also capable of understanding their motives for wanting or doing certain things. This person appears to have made a monumental leap from the previous stage of development, because the new found sense of responsibility is possibly the turning point where a less selfish, immature attitude brings forth the desire to share their life with another person. A young adult at this stage is likely to be mature enough to marry.
There is a significant advancement to the three higher levels of Loevinger's ego development, than there is between any of the lower stages. For instance, it is not possible to be a good spouse or partner without first understanding what stage you are in, how you got there, and how to you are able to interpret and accept the differences between your spouse and yourself. I would liken this matured ego stage to the experience of looking at something through a magnifying glass so it can be clearly seen and understood. Looking at something from the third person perspective might be another example, with the first two people being young, immature versions of the self. These abilities cannot be possessed during the lower levels of development, where the ego is intolerant and self-conscious.
Although somewhat similar in later advancement, each period in Loevinger's theory presents contrasting or conflicting preoccupations with prior developmental stages. The manifestations bought forth by the newly found self-awareness from each stage all contribute to the end result of becoming the self-actualized individual. Although many people will never achieve this fully integrated status, Loevinger's theory provides the fundamental proof that we are all capable of shaping a more positive destiny for ourselves, if we chose to be more self-aware and take proactive steps to do so.
Reference
McAdams, D. (2006). The person: A new introduction to personality psychology. (4th ed).Hoboken, NJ