In which psychosocial stage does trust versus mistrust occur?

The stage of trust versus mistrust occurs during the first year of life, as outlined in Erik Erikson's psychosocial development theory. This is the foundational stage in which an infant learns to trust their caregivers and the world around them based on the reliability and consistency of care received. This early experience forms the basis for all subsequent stages of development. If a caregiver provides reliable care, the infant develops a sense of trust, feeling secure and safe in the world. Conversely, inconsistent or inadequate care may lead to feelings of mistrust, creating anxiety and insecurity as the child grows.

The other options represent different stages in Erikson's framework. The second year of life involves autonomy versus shame and doubt, where children begin to assert their independence. The third year focuses on initiative versus guilt, where children start to initiate activities and assert control over their surroundings. Adolescence is characterized by identity versus role confusion, as individuals explore their identity and personal beliefs. Each of these stages builds upon the outcomes of the previous stages, highlighting the significance of trust established in infancy.