Which Erikson stage involves the child asserting independence and self-control?

Which Erikson stage involves the child asserting independence and self-control?

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

Answer: (B)

Developing independence and self-control is the focus of this stage, when children start doing things on their own and testing boundaries. Toddlers want to make simple choices, dress themselves, feed themselves, and carry out little tasks without constant help. The way adults respond shapes how they feel about their abilities. If caregivers offer safe boundaries and gentle encouragement, the child learns they can act autonomously, building a sense of autonomy and self-confidence. If support is lacking or overly critical, the child may grow to doubt their own capabilities and feel shame about trying to do things independently. This contrasts with earlier stages where trust is built from basic safety and reliability, and later stages where the emphasis shifts to initiating activities and planning (initiative) or mastering skills and feeling competent (industry). The core idea here is that successful independence fosters autonomy; failure to support it can lead to doubt and shame.

Developing independence and self-control is the focus of this stage, when children start doing things on their own and testing boundaries. Toddlers want to make simple choices, dress themselves, feed themselves, and carry out little tasks without constant help. The way adults respond shapes how they feel about their abilities. If caregivers offer safe boundaries and gentle encouragement, the child learns they can act autonomously, building a sense of autonomy and self-confidence. If support is lacking or overly critical, the child may grow to doubt their own capabilities and feel shame about trying to do things independently.

This contrasts with earlier stages where trust is built from basic safety and reliability, and later stages where the emphasis shifts to initiating activities and planning (initiative) or mastering skills and feeling competent (industry). The core idea here is that successful independence fosters autonomy; failure to support it can lead to doubt and shame.