Which psychosocial crisis characterizes the preschool years in Erikson's theory?

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

Answer: (D)

In this stage, children are learning to take the lead in activities, plan what they want to do, and act on their ideas. Erikson describes this as initiative vs guilt. If adults support their curiosity and provide opportunities to try, explore, and set goals—like organizing a pretend play, drawing a picture, or leading a game—the child develops a sense of initiative and purpose. They feel capable of initiating actions and pursuing what they imagine. If they’re overly criticized or punished for their attempts or overly controlled, they may develop guilt about their desires or plans, which can dampen their initiative and make them hesitate to try new things.

Autonomy vs guilt belongs to the earlier toddler years and focuses on independence; trust vs mistrust is about basic needs being met in infancy; industry vs inferiority is the school-age period centered on developing competence and mastery.