During which stage do children develop a sense of responsibility?

The stage in which children develop a sense of responsibility is the Initiative vs. Guilt stage, which occurs during early childhood, typically around the ages of 3 to 6 years. In this stage, children begin to assert their power and control over the world through directing play and other social interactions. As they engage in initiative-taking behaviors—such as planning games, initiating activities, and exploring their surroundings—they start to develop a sense of responsibility for their actions.

When children successfully navigate this stage, they feel a sense of initiative and are encouraged to take risks and explore their environment, leading to a positive development of autonomy and responsibility. However, if they are met with too much criticism or control from parents and caregivers, they may experience guilt about their efforts to initiate activities, which can hinder the development of this sense of responsibility. This emphasizes the importance of supportive guidance, allowing them to explore and learn from their experiences while recognizing accountability for their actions.

The other stages mentioned address different psychological challenges and developments. The Industry vs. Inferiority stage focuses on a child's ability to achieve and gain competence in tasks, primarily in school settings. Identity Formation vs. Identity Confusion highlights the teenage years when individuals explore their personal identity. Intimacy vs. Isolation