Which psychosocial stage occurs during the first 18 months and centers on trust versus mistrust?

• A. Autonomy vs shame and doubt
• B. Initiative vs guilt
• C. Trust vs mistrust
• D. Industry vs inferiority

Answer: (C)

The main idea is building trust in infancy through reliable caregiver care. In the first stage, which covers birth to about 18–24 months, the central task is for the infant to develop a basic sense of trust that the world is a safe place and that needs will be met. When caregivers respond consistently—feeding on time, soothing cries, holding and comforting, and providing warmth—the baby learns that the environment is reliable and people can be depended on. This creates a sense of security and a hopeful expectation about future interactions. If care is inconsistent or neglectful, the child may develop mistrust, feeling uncertain about whether needs will be met, which can lead to skepticism and anxiety in relationships later on. This early sense of trust or mistrust lays the groundwork for how they approach relationships and exploration as they grow. The other stages come later: autonomy vs shame and doubt follows as toddlers seek independence; initiative vs guilt arises in the preschool years as they begin to try new activities; and industry vs inferiority appears in the school-age years as they work toward competence.