During which stage of Erikson's Eight Stages of Development does an individual primarily focus on developing intimate relationships, and why is this stage crucial for future social interactions?

The stage of Erikson's Eight Stages of Development where an individual primarily focuses on developing intimate relationships is called "Intimacy vs. Isolation. " This stage typically occurs in young adulthood, around the ages of 18 to 40. During this time, people seek to form close, meaningful connections with others, such as friendships and romantic partnerships. This stage is crucial because developing healthy relationships helps individuals learn trust, communication, and empathy, which are essential for future social interactions.