According to Erikson, children have _____, and thus believe that they can achieve any goal.

• A. role diffusion
• B. a sense of initiative
• C. identity confusion
• D. inferiority complex

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, which outlines stages that individuals pass through from infancy to adulthood.
2. Identify the specific stage relevant to children, which is the 'Initiative vs. Guilt' stage, typically occurring in early childhood (around ages 3 to 6).
3. Recall that during this stage, children develop a sense of initiative, meaning they begin to assert power and control over their environment through directing play and other social interactions.
4. Recognize that having a sense of initiative means children believe they can achieve goals and take on new challenges confidently.
5. Compare the given options and conclude that 'a sense of initiative' best fits Erikson's description of children's belief in their ability to achieve any goal.