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Trust vs. Mistrust (Age: 0 -1 1/2)
When Nicole's (6 months old) mother is away for work, the older sister (secondary caregiver) looks out for her. Nicole feels secure with the care of her sister even without the mother's presence. In Erikson's stage of trust vs. mistrust, an infant is unaware of its surroundings, so it relies on the support and nurturing care of the primary caregiver. If the primary caregiver is responsive and attentive with the infant's needs, then the infant tend to develop a sense of trust. -
Autonomy vs. Shame
One day, Nicole (2 years old) attempted to put her shirt on, but her head got stuck. Her mother laughed, and Nicole felt embarrassed and ashamed. It caused her to feel a sense of inadequacy and self-doubt. In Erikson's autonomy vs. shame, toddlers independency increases and become aware of its capabilities. They are encouraged to perform necessary actions such as choosing clothing selection. However, if a child goes beyond its limitation, he/she are shamed. -
Initiative vs. Guilt (Age: 3-5)
Nicole initiated a home life game with her classmates. She plays the mother role while the others play the father, daughter, and son figure. Nicole is preparing dinner while the kids help set the table. The father is responsible for working to support them. In Erikson's stage initiative vs. guilt states that children at this age are highly curious and eager to learn new things. Preschoolers have plenty of freedom and opportunity to reenact creative activities such as cooking.
