In infancy, the psychosocial focus is on trust versus mistrust. Which statement best describes this focus?

In infancy, the psychosocial focus is on trust versus mistrust. Which statement best describes this focus?

• A. Autonomy
• B. Trust
• C. Industry
• D. Identity

Answer: (B)

Erikson’s first psychosocial stage is being tested here. In infancy, how consistently a caregiver meets basic needs—feeding, comfort, warmth, and soothing—shapes the infant’s sense of trust in others and in the world. When needs are reliably met, the infant learns to trust that caregivers will respond, fostering a feeling of safety and hope. Inconsistent or neglectful care can lead to mistrust and insecurity, undermining that foundational sense of reliability. The statement that best describes this focus is Trust, reflecting the infant’s developing confidence that others will meet their needs. Autonomy, Industry, and Identity describe later developmental stages: autonomy emerges in toddler years as independence grows; industry in school-age years as skills are mastered; identity forms during adolescence.

Erikson’s first psychosocial stage is being tested here. In infancy, how consistently a caregiver meets basic needs—feeding, comfort, warmth, and soothing—shapes the infant’s sense of trust in others and in the world. When needs are reliably met, the infant learns to trust that caregivers will respond, fostering a feeling of safety and hope. Inconsistent or neglectful care can lead to mistrust and insecurity, undermining that foundational sense of reliability.

The statement that best describes this focus is Trust, reflecting the infant’s developing confidence that others will meet their needs. Autonomy, Industry, and Identity describe later developmental stages: autonomy emerges in toddler years as independence grows; industry in school-age years as skills are mastered; identity forms during adolescence.