Which psychosocial stage is associated with infancy (0-1.5 years) and the basic virtue Hope?

• A. Trust vs Mistrust
• B. Autonomy vs Shame
• C. Identity vs Role Confusion
• D. Intimacy vs Isolation

Answer: (A)

In Erikson’s theory, infancy (0–1.5 years) centers on the stage of Trust versus Mistrust. When caregivers consistently meet an infant’s needs, the child learns that the world is reliable and people can be trusted, which develops the basic virtue of hope—believing that life can be safely anticipated and that responses will come. If care is inconsistent, the infant may grow up with mistrust and fear, undermining that hopeful outlook. The other stages occur later: Autonomy versus Shame arises in toddler years with the virtue of will, Identity versus Role Confusion appears in adolescence with fidelity, and Intimacy versus Isolation appears in early adulthood with love.