Which Eriksonian stage applies to early childhood and emphasizes initiative?

Which Eriksonian stage applies to early childhood and emphasizes initiative?

• A. Industry vs. Inferiority
• B. Autonomy vs. Shame
• C. Initiative vs. Guilt
• D. Trust vs. Mistrust

Answer: (C)

In Erikson’s theory, the preschool years are when children focus on initiative. They want to start tasks, plan activities, and take the lead in play and exploration. When adults support their choices, provide chances to try new things, and help them problem-solve, children build a sense of initiative and purpose. If their attempts are overly criticized or stifled, they can develop guilt about acting on their ideas, which can make them hesitant to try again. The other stages occur at different ages: trust vs. mistrust is in infancy, autonomy vs. shame and doubt in the toddler years, and industry vs. inferiority in later elementary years.

In Erikson’s theory, the preschool years are when children focus on initiative. They want to start tasks, plan activities, and take the lead in play and exploration. When adults support their choices, provide chances to try new things, and help them problem-solve, children build a sense of initiative and purpose. If their attempts are overly criticized or stifled, they can develop guilt about acting on their ideas, which can make them hesitant to try again. The other stages occur at different ages: trust vs. mistrust is in infancy, autonomy vs. shame and doubt in the toddler years, and industry vs. inferiority in later elementary years.