In Erikson's framework, which stage is associated with the toddler period (roughly ages 2-3)?

In Erikson's framework, which stage is associated with the toddler period (roughly ages 2-3)?

• A. Trust vs. Mistrust
• B. Autonomy vs. Shame
• C. Industry vs. Inferiority
• D. Identity vs. Role Confusion

Answer: (B)

Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt is the stage tied to the toddler years. Around ages two to three, children are rapidly learning to do things for themselves and test their growing independence, from dressing and feeding to making simple choices and exploring their environment. When adults support these efforts by offering opportunities to try tasks, providing gentle guidance, and praising attempts, the child develops a sense of autonomy—the feeling that they can act effectively and handle new challenges. If caregivers are overly controlling, critical, or never allow the child to try, the child may question their own abilities and develop shame or doubt about what they can do. This balance between independence and supportive guidance helps build self-confidence and a sense of agency. By contrast, trust vs. mistrust is an earlier stage rooted in infancy, industry vs. inferiority comes later in the school-age years as competence is developed, and identity vs. role confusion emerges during adolescence as the sense of self evolves.