This process of self-awareness and discovery is so effective because it taps into the stages of adult development. We all know children move through distinct developmental stages as they grow. From baby to toddler to child and adolescent, each stage is accompanied by more complex and observable mental and emotional capabilities. But what about adults? Are there defined stages that we continue to move through as we age? The answer is yes, but they are not as clear cut and many of us don’t progress very far!

Through extensive research, Harvard Psychologist Dr Robert Kegan identified five stages of adult development that centres around how we see ourselves in the world. They are:

• Stage 1 – Impulsive Mind (early childhood)
• Stage 2 – Imperial Mind (adolescence, 6% of adults)
• Stage 3 – Socialised Mind (58% of adults)
• Stage 4 – Self-Authoring Mind (35% of adults)
• Stage 5 – Self-transforming Mind (1% of adults)

The first two stages begin in childhood and adolescence and most people move through them without issue. This is where we make sense of the world through an emphasis on our own needs, interests and agenda. What’s in it for me?

Stages 3-5 kick in once we hit adulthood and we start to expand our sense of self and our understanding of the world.

Stage 3: The Socialised Mind

We’ve outgrown the self-centred adolescent stage and are now more aware and influenced by the ideas, norms and beliefs of external sources –our family, workplace and society. We are concerned with the opinions and expectations of others and our behaviour conforms with the dominant culture. In this stage, we don’t have a strong sense of self and therefore look outside for validation. What do you think of me?

Stage 4: The Self-Authoring Mind

In this stage we can clearly define who we are, rather than being defined by our relationships and environment. We question expectations and values, creating our own sense of authority and voice. Here we are open and willing to explore our thoughts and behaviours and take responsibility for our inner states and emotions. I know who I am.

Stage 5: The Self-Transforming Mind

Only 1% of the adult population reach this stage of development where we are not tied to a particular identity but our sense of who we are is constantly evolving. We have our own opinions and inner authority but are also open to work with the authority of others and question our beliefs. We can hold multiple thoughts and ideologies at once, seeing things from different perspectives. Who I am is constantly evolving. ‍

"Only 1% of the adult population reach this stage of development where we are not tied to a particular identity but our sense of who we are is constantly evolving."

So what stage are you at?

According to Kegan, we all believe we are at a higher state than we actually are. But the important thing to remember is that the path is not linear and it involves a fair amount of back and forth. We are complex beings with varying degrees of self-awareness that can change moment to moment depending on our environment and emotional wellbeing.

Read the next article in this series on How to reach higher stages  of adult development.