Question

According to Erikson's stages of Psychosocial Development, the "trust versus mistrust phase" is the developmental task of:

• A. Infant
• B. Toddlers
• C. Preschoolers
• D. Adolescents

Hint:

Erikson's stages are sequential and build on each other. The very first challenge a person faces after birth is to determine if the world is a safe, reliable place. This foundational decision is the essence of the Trust vs. Mistrust stage in infancy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Concept Identification: The inquiry seeks the age demographic corresponding to the inaugural phase of Erik Erikson's psychosocial development theory, characterized by the central conflict of "trust versus mistrust." Step 2: Detailed Analysis: Erik Erikson delineated eight stages of psychosocial development, each marked by a distinct developmental challenge or crisis. The initial stage is:
Stage 1: Trust vs. Mistrust. This stage spans from birth to approximately 18 months. During this interval, the infant relies entirely on caregivers. Successful navigation of this stage, contingent upon dependable and consistent care, yields the virtue of hope and a foundational belief in the world's reliability. Conversely, failure leads to a sense of mistrust.
The developmental tasks for the other age brackets presented are as follows:
Toddlers (18 months - 3 years): The task is Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt.
Preschoolers (3 - 5 years): The task is Initiative vs. Guilt.
Adolescents (12 - 18 years): The task is Identity vs. Role Confusion.
Step 3: Conclusive Answer: The "trust versus mistrust" phase represents the primary developmental objective of an infant.