Which of the following statements is correct regarding Erikson's trust-versus-mistrust stage?

• A. It focuses primarily on the development of autonomy and independence.
• B. It occurs during infancy, when children learn whether or not they can rely on caregivers to meet their needs.
• C. It is the final stage in Erikson's psychosocial theory, occurring in late adulthood.
• D. It is unrelated to the quality of attachment formed between infant and caregiver.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that Erikson's trust-versus-mistrust stage is the first stage in his psychosocial development theory, which occurs during infancy.
2. Step 2: Recognize that this stage centers on whether infants learn to trust their caregivers to reliably meet their needs, forming a foundation for future social and emotional development.
3. Step 3: Note that this stage is not about autonomy and independence; those themes are central to a later stage called autonomy versus shame and doubt.
4. Step 4: Remember that the trust-versus-mistrust stage is not the final stage; Erikson's theory includes multiple stages that continue into late adulthood.
5. Step 5: Understand that this stage is closely related to the quality of attachment between infant and caregiver, as trust develops through consistent and responsive caregiving.