Autonomy vs. Shame is the Eriksonian stage associated with which age range?

Autonomy vs. Shame is the Eriksonian stage associated with which age range?

• A. 0-1 years
• B. 2-3 years
• C. 4-5 years
• D. 6-12 years

Answer: (B)

Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt centers on a toddler’s growing urge to do things for themselves. Around ages two to three, children start walking more confidently, attempting self-feeding, dressing, and making simple choices. When caregivers support these efforts and give opportunities for independent action, the child develops a sense of autonomy and mastery. If, instead, they are overly restricted or harshly criticized for not doing things perfectly, the child may doubt their abilities and feel ashamed about trying new tasks. This push for independence is most characteristic of the toddler years, making two to three years the best fit. The other stages align with different life periods: infancy covers trust vs. mistrust, the preschool years emphasize initiative vs. guilt, and the school-age years focus on industry vs. inferiority.

Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt centers on a toddler’s growing urge to do things for themselves. Around ages two to three, children start walking more confidently, attempting self-feeding, dressing, and making simple choices. When caregivers support these efforts and give opportunities for independent action, the child develops a sense of autonomy and mastery. If, instead, they are overly restricted or harshly criticized for not doing things perfectly, the child may doubt their abilities and feel ashamed about trying new tasks. This push for independence is most characteristic of the toddler years, making two to three years the best fit. The other stages align with different life periods: infancy covers trust vs. mistrust, the preschool years emphasize initiative vs. guilt, and the school-age years focus on industry vs. inferiority.