This volume contains a selection of papers discussed at a seminar in Delhi under the auspices of the ICSSR. Invited to lead the discussion was Erik H Erikson, whose pioneering contributions to an understanding of the steps leading to adulthood provided the base for discussions. These were further enriched by participants from different backgrounds and fields. This book was first published in 1979 and then reissued in 1982. This is the first time it is bing published in the Oxford India Paperbacks format.