The Initiative vs Guilt stage corresponds to which age range and basic virtue?

The Initiative vs Guilt stage corresponds to which age range and basic virtue?

• A. Ages 1.5-3; Will
• B. Ages 3-6; Purpose
• C. Ages 6-12; Competency
• D. Adolescence; Fidelity

Answer: (B)

In Erikson’s psychosocial theory, the initiative vs guilt stage happens during early childhood as children start initiating activities, making plans, and trying out new tasks. When caregivers support these efforts and allow safe exploration, the child develops a sense of purpose—the belief that they can set goals and carry them out. If their attempts are met with harsh punishment or criticism, they may feel guilty about expressing their needs and desires, which can curb their willingness to try new things. The age range for this phase is roughly 3 to 6 years, aligning with preschool to early elementary years, and the associated virtue is purpose. This matches the option that pairs ages 3-6 with purpose. Other stages map to different ages and virtues: autonomy vs doubt for younger toddlers (will), industry vs inferiority for later childhood (competency), and identity vs role confusion during adolescence (fidelity).

In Erikson’s psychosocial theory, the initiative vs guilt stage happens during early childhood as children start initiating activities, making plans, and trying out new tasks. When caregivers support these efforts and allow safe exploration, the child develops a sense of purpose—the belief that they can set goals and carry them out. If their attempts are met with harsh punishment or criticism, they may feel guilty about expressing their needs and desires, which can curb their willingness to try new things.

The age range for this phase is roughly 3 to 6 years, aligning with preschool to early elementary years, and the associated virtue is purpose. This matches the option that pairs ages 3-6 with purpose. Other stages map to different ages and virtues: autonomy vs doubt for younger toddlers (will), industry vs inferiority for later childhood (competency), and identity vs role confusion during adolescence (fidelity).