Abstract
The purpose of this theoretical paper is to orga-nize and elaborate on the conception of stages in the ritualization of experience. Erikson frames the ritualization as a process of playful adaptation that individualizes formal and informal ritual practices.
Despite the many inspirations Erikson brought to psychology and play theory, the relation between ontogenesis, ritualization, and playfulness is not fully explored. This paper advocates the important role of playfulness during human development drawing on conclusions from contemporary research and play theory.
Subsequently, the eight stages of ritualization are put in a context of ego integrity construction. According to Erikson, play forms the mental space in mind and reality that enables ego to develop mastery over reality and achieve greater coherence.
The later stages of life are emphasized here to propose the potential role of playfulness in successful aging and coping with death. Playfulness is then discussed as an idea-listic principle of general development and as the specific style of ego integrity.