What is Erikson's psychosocial stage for toddlers?

• A. Trust vs. Mistrust
• B. Initiative vs. Guilt
• C. Identity vs. Role confusion
• D. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

Answer: (D)

Toddlers are at a stage where the main task is gaining independence while learning to control impulses and actions. They start to do things for themselves—feeding, dressing, choosing activities—and seek a sense of personal mastery. When caregivers support this growing autonomy with opportunities to try and succeed (while offering gentle guidance and safety), the child builds confidence in their own abilities. If support is too restrictive or punitive, the child may feel ashamed or doubt their capacity to act independently, leading to dependence on others. This balance between independence and self-doubt is what defines this stage. The other stages align with different ages: infancy centers on trusting others for basic needs, early childhood focuses on initiating activities and dealing with guilt, and adolescence revolves around forming identity.