Which stage in Erikson's theory is associated with the crisis of trust versus mistrust?

• A. Trust vs Mistrust
• B. Autonomy vs Shame
• C. Identity vs Role Confusion
• D. Integrity vs Despair

Answer: (A)

In Erikson’s theory, the first stage centers on trust versus mistrust and occurs during infancy. This is the period when a baby depends completely on caregivers to meet basic needs like food, soothing, and safety. When these needs are met consistently and warmly, the infant develops a sense of trust—the belief that the world is a predictable and safe place and that others can be relied upon. The positive outcome from this early experience is hope, a foundational virtue that supports later relationships and exploration. If care is inconsistent or neglectful, the infant may learn mistrust, which can lead to fear and a feeling that the world is unreliable. The other stages—such as autonomy versus shame, identity versus role confusion, and integrity versus despair—occur later and address different challenges, so they aren’t about the trust issue that arises in infancy.