In Erikson's psychosocial stages, what is the first stage that infants undergo?

In Erikson's psychosocial theory, the first stage that infants undergo is Trust vs Mistrust. This stage occurs during the initial year of life, where infants rely heavily on caregivers for their basic needs such as nourishment, comfort, and security. When caregivers are responsive and consistently meet these needs, infants develop a sense of trust toward the world around them. This foundational sense of trust is crucial as it lays the groundwork for future stages of development.

Successful navigation of this stage leads to feelings of safety and trust in interpersonal relationships, which are essential for healthy emotional and social development. Conversely, if caregivers are inconsistent, neglectful, or unresponsive, infants may develop mistrust, feeling unsafe and anxious about the reliability of their environment and relationships.

The other choices represent later stages in Erikson's model. Autonomy vs Shame or Doubt takes place during toddlerhood, Identity vs Role Confusion occurs during adolescence, and Intimacy vs Isolation is pertinent to young adulthood, all of which build upon the foundations established in earlier stages, particularly the first stage of Trust vs Mistrust.