Which stage is associated with initiating tasks and taking risks to pursue goals?

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

Answer: (A)

Initiative vs Guilt is the stage where children begin to initiate tasks and pursue goals, often by taking risks in play and exploration. In this stage, they want to plan activities, lead others, and try new things, which builds a sense of initiative and purpose when supported. If their attempts are met with encouragement, they develop confidence to take on challenges. If they’re overly restricted or punished for trying, they can develop guilt about their desires to act and explore, leading to hesitancy.

The other stages focus on different dynamics: Trust vs Mistrust centers on developing basic trust in caregivers during infancy; Autonomy vs Shame/Doubt is about developing independence and self-control in the toddler years; Industry vs Inferiority concerns mastering skills and feeling competent in school-age years.