Infant Erikson stage?

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

Answer: (A)

In this early period, the main task is forming basic trust. When caregivers respond consistently to an infant’s needs—feeding, comforting, and soothing—the infant learns that the world is reliable and that people can be trusted. This builds a sense of hope and security that underpins later relationships and exploration. If care is inconsistent or neglectful, the infant may develop mistrust, feeling that the world is unpredictable and that they cannot rely on others. This foundational trust versus mistrust occurs during the first year, making it the appropriate stage for an infant. As children grow, they encounter later stages—autonomy versus shame and doubt in the toddler years, initiative versus guilt in early childhood, and industry versus inferiority in school age—each corresponding to new developmental tasks beyond infancy.