What is the result when children receive little or no encouragement during the industry stage?

During the industry stage, which occurs roughly between the ages of 6 and 12, children are developing a sense of competence and mastery in various skills. They are eager to learn and engage in activities that promote their ability to become productive members of society. When children receive little or no encouragement during this critical stage, they may develop feelings of inferiority. This occurs because they compare themselves to peers and may feel inadequate if their efforts are not recognized or supported. A lack of positive reinforcement can lead to diminished self-esteem and self-worth, making them doubt their abilities and struggle to find their place in social and academic environments.

This can affect their motivation to engage in new challenges and contribute to a negative self-concept, further perpetuating feelings of inferiority as they internalize the belief that they are unable to succeed or that their contributions are not valued. Therefore, the result is a deep-seated sense of inferiority, shaping their development moving forward.