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

What does Erikson's theory suggest happens if a child cannot resolve the crisis in the infancy stage?

1. The child develops a strong sense of self

2. The child becomes withdrawn and avoids interaction

3. The child learns to care for others

4. The child finds a meaningful identity

The correct answer is: The child becomes withdrawn and avoids interaction

Erikson's theory of psychosocial development posits that during the infancy stage, which corresponds to the first stage of development, the primary crisis revolves around trust versus mistrust. If an infant is unable to successfully navigate this crisis, which is typically influenced by the quality of care they receive from their caregivers, the outcome can lead to feelings of mistrust and insecurity. When the infant's needs are not consistently met or if the environment is perceived as unpredictable, the child may emerge with a sense of hopelessness and a belief that the world is not a safe place. This can manifest in behaviors such as withdrawal from social interactions and a reluctance to form relationships later in life. A child who cannot develop trust may find it difficult to engage with others, leading to a tendency to avoid interactions as a protective mechanism against potential disappointment or harm. In contrast, successful resolution of this stage fosters a foundation of trust that facilitates later social and emotional development. Consequently, the understanding of this stage emphasizes the importance of responsiveness and reliability in caregiving, as these factors significantly influence the child's future relationship patterns and overall emotional well-being.