To which age group does Industry versus Inferiority apply in Erikson's theory?

• A. 3 to 6 years
• B. 1 to 3 years
• C. 6 to 11 years
• D. Birth to 1 year

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is Erikson’s psychosocial development stages and where industry versus inferiority fits in childhood. This particular stage happens during the school-age years, roughly 6 to 11 years old. In this period, children are learning to master new skills—reading, writing, math, sports, and social roles—and they look to teachers, parents, and peers for feedback. When they feel capable and productive, they develop a sense of industry, a belief in their ability to achieve tasks and meet goals. If their efforts are met with repeated failure or harsh criticism, they may begin to doubt their own abilities, developing a sense of inferiority.

Other time frames align with different stages: infancy (birth to 1) centers on trust versus mistrust, early toddlerhood (1–3) on autonomy versus shame and doubt, and the early childhood window (3–6) on initiative versus guilt.