Which outcome is described as part of the infancy stage in Erikson's framework?

Which outcome is described as part of the infancy stage in Erikson's framework?

• A. Basic Trust
• B. Autonomy
• C. Initiative
• D. Identity

Answer: (A)

In infancy, Erikson’s psychosocial stage focuses on trust vs. mistrust. When caregivers consistently meet an infant’s needs—feeding, soothing, comforting—the infant develops basic trust, meaning they come to believe that the world is reliable and people can be depended on. This early sense of trust provides the groundwork for later relationships and a feeling that needs will be met. If care is inconsistent or neglectful, mistrust may develop, signaling doubt about the world’s predictability. The other outcomes belong to later stages—autonomy arises in toddlerhood as children start to act independently, initiative in early childhood as they begin planning and undertaking activities, and identity during adolescence as they explore who they are. So, basic trust correctly reflects the infancy stage outcome.

In infancy, Erikson’s psychosocial stage focuses on trust vs. mistrust. When caregivers consistently meet an infant’s needs—feeding, soothing, comforting—the infant develops basic trust, meaning they come to believe that the world is reliable and people can be depended on. This early sense of trust provides the groundwork for later relationships and a feeling that needs will be met. If care is inconsistent or neglectful, mistrust may develop, signaling doubt about the world’s predictability. The other outcomes belong to later stages—autonomy arises in toddlerhood as children start to act independently, initiative in early childhood as they begin planning and undertaking activities, and identity during adolescence as they explore who they are. So, basic trust correctly reflects the infancy stage outcome.