What is the primary need for young adults in the "Intimacy vs. Isolation" stage?

The primary need for young adults in the "Intimacy vs. Isolation" stage is centered around the importance of forming deep and meaningful connections with others. This stage, which is part of Erik Erikson's psychosocial development theory, typically occurs during young adulthood and emphasizes the need to establish intimate relationships.

Young adults seek to share their lives with others, whether through romantic partnerships, friendships, or communal relationships, as these connections contribute significantly to their emotional growth and fulfillment. Successfully navigating this stage leads to strong interpersonal relationships and a sense of belonging. Failure to do so may result in feelings of isolation and loneliness.

The other options, while related to different stages of development, do not fully capture the essence of this particular stage. Developing independence is more pertinent to adolescence; comparing oneself to peers mainly occurs in earlier stages; and establishing a sense of self is primarily a focus of identity development rather than intimacy. Thus, the need to share lives with others is a defining characteristic of the "Intimacy vs. Isolation" stage.