Which term refers to a theory of ego development reflecting different stages of life?

• A. Ego-defense mechanism
• B. Ego psychology
• C. Electra complex
• D. Fixation

Answer: (B)

The term that describes a theory of ego development reflecting different stages of life is ego psychology. This approach focuses on how the ego grows, organizes experience, and adapts across the lifespan, shaping personality as people move through infancy to old age and face changing demands. It emphasizes the ego’s functioning and development rather than just how anxieties are managed or specific psychosexual stages. By contrast, ego-defense mechanisms refer to particular strategies the ego uses to cope with anxiety; the Electra complex is a specific psychosexual concept; and fixation describes being stuck at a particular stage rather than a broad lifespan theory.