Which Erikson stage corresponds to birth through 12 months?

Which Erikson stage corresponds to birth through 12 months?

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

Answer: (A)

During birth through the first year, the key task is forming trust through reliable, consistent care. When caregivers meet basic needs—food, warmth, comfort, safety—the infant learns that the world is predictable and supportive, laying a foundation for hope. Inconsistent or neglectful caregiving, on the other hand, can foster mistrust, fear, and a sense that the environment is unsafe. The other Erikson stages occur later: autonomy and doubt emerge as toddlers begin to assert independence; initiative and guilt develop in the preschool years as children explore and plan activities; industry and inferiority arise in the school-age years as children build skills and compare themselves with peers. So, the stage that fits birth to about 12 months is trust vs mistrust.

During birth through the first year, the key task is forming trust through reliable, consistent care. When caregivers meet basic needs—food, warmth, comfort, safety—the infant learns that the world is predictable and supportive, laying a foundation for hope. Inconsistent or neglectful caregiving, on the other hand, can foster mistrust, fear, and a sense that the environment is unsafe. The other Erikson stages occur later: autonomy and doubt emerge as toddlers begin to assert independence; initiative and guilt develop in the preschool years as children explore and plan activities; industry and inferiority arise in the school-age years as children build skills and compare themselves with peers. So, the stage that fits birth to about 12 months is trust vs mistrust.