According to Erikson, the foundation for attachment in infancy is:

• A. the establishment of autonomy versus shame and doubt
• B. the resolution of initiative versus guilt
• C. the achievement of industry versus inferiority
• D. the development of trust versus mistrust

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, which outlines eight stages that individuals pass through from infancy to adulthood, each characterized by a central conflict.
2. Identify that the first stage, occurring in infancy (birth to approximately 18 months), is 'trust versus mistrust,' where the infant learns whether or not they can trust their caregivers and environment.
3. Recognize that this stage is foundational for attachment because the infant's sense of security and trust influences their ability to form healthy emotional bonds.
4. Note that the other stages mentioned—'autonomy versus shame and doubt,' 'initiative versus guilt,' and 'industry versus inferiority'—occur later in childhood and involve different developmental challenges.
5. Conclude that according to Erikson, the foundation for attachment in infancy is the successful resolution of the 'trust versus mistrust' stage.