American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) Practice Test

According to Erik Erikson, what is the main challenge faced during the infancy stage?

1. Independence vs. judgment

2. Trust vs. mistrust

3. Identity vs. role confusion

4. Initiative vs. guilt

The correct answer is: Trust vs. mistrust

During the infancy stage, the primary challenge outlined by Erik Erikson is the conflict of trust versus mistrust. This stage, which typically spans from birth to about 18 months, fundamentally revolves around the infant's need for reliability and care from caregivers. When caregivers provide consistent and nurturing care, the infant develops a sense of trust, feeling secure in their environment and in their relationships. This foundational trust is crucial as it impacts the individual’s outlook on future relationships and their ability to trust others as they grow. Conversely, if the infant’s needs are not adequately met—leading to neglect or inconsistent caregiving—they may develop a sense of mistrust. This feeling can lead to difficulties in forming healthy relationships later in life, as the individual may question the reliability and intentions of others. This stage of development is pivotal because it lays the groundwork for the subsequent phases of emotional and social development as outlined by Erikson, including those centered on autonomy, identity, and initiative. Each of those later stages builds on the trust established during infancy.