What outcome results when a child feels responsible during their development stage?

When a child feels responsible during their development stage, the outcome is often characterized by a sense of guilt. This is closely linked to Erik Erikson's psychosocial stages of development, particularly the stage of "initiative vs. guilt." In this stage, which typically occurs between the ages of 3 to 6 years, children begin to assert control and power over their environment. They start to take initiative in various tasks and activities, leading to feelings of accomplishment and capability.

However, if children take initiative and subsequently face discouragement, criticism, or are overly controlled, they may develop feelings of guilt about their needs and desires. This guilt can stem from the belief that they are overstepping their bounds or causing trouble, thus leading them to suppress their initiative. Therefore, a child who feels responsible in a manner that is not positively reinforced may indeed end up feeling guilt, as they might struggle with their desires to act independently versus the perceived expectations from adults around them.

Understanding this emotional outcome is critical for caregivers and educators, as fostering a supportive environment that allows for initiative can help mitigate the feelings of guilt, promoting healthy emotional and psychological development.