National Counselor Exam (NCE) 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

In Erikson's psychosocial development theory, the key development issue that arises when an individual struggles to form a strong sense of identity is intimacy. This challenge typically occurs during the stage of young adulthood, where the ability to engage in deep, meaningful relationships is heavily influenced by one's established sense of self. If a person has not successfully developed a strong identity during the previous stage of adolescence, it becomes difficult for them to commit to intimate relationships, as they may lack clarity about who they are and what they want from their partnerships.

This struggle with identity can lead to feelings of insecurity and uncertainty in relationships, making it challenging to build connections based on mutual understanding and trust. Thus, forming a robust sense of identity is crucial before moving on to the next stage of intimacy, where successful relationships can be achieved. Intimacy and identity are intrinsically linked; without a clear understanding of oneself, fostering close relationships becomes problematic.