According to Erikson, which psychosocial task is associated with preschool-aged children?

• A. Autonomy vs Shame
• B. Initiative vs guilt
• C. Industry vs Inferiority
• D. Trust vs Mistrust

Answer: (B)

In preschool years, children are focused on taking initiative through purposeful play and planning. They try to lead activities, propose ideas, and explore new roles, which helps them develop a sense of purpose and direction. When their initiatives are encouraged, they gain confidence and a willingness to take on new tasks. When they’re punished or overly restricted for trying something on their own, they may feel guilty about acting on their desires or questions, which can dampen their initiative. This balance between independence and social feedback is the core of this stage.

This fits Erikson’s stage for that age group, where developing initiative is key, rather than the earlier autonomy versus shame (toddler years) or the later industry versus inferiority (school-age). Trust versus mistrust is tied to infancy.