Which age range corresponds to the Erikson stage Trust versus Mistrust?

• A. Birth to 1 year
• B. 3 to 6 years
• C. 6 to 11 years
• D. 12 to 20 years

Answer: (A)

Trust vs mistrust is the first psychosocial stage in Erikson’s theory, unfolding in infancy as a baby relies on caregivers to meet basic needs. When caregivers respond consistently with feeding, soothing, and care, the infant learns that the world is reliable and develops a sense of trust. If care is inconsistent or neglectful, the infant may grow mistrustful, anxious, and wary of others. This early period centers on birth through roughly the first year of life, which is why birth to 1 year is the correct range. The other age spans belong to later stages—3 to 6 years aligns with Initiative vs Guilt, 6 to 11 years with Industry vs Inferiority, and adolescence with Identity vs Role Confusion.