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Correct Answer: autonomy vs. shame and doubt.
according to erik erikson, a prominent developmental psychologist, each stage of a person's life is characterized by a specific conflict that serves as a turning point in development. erikson's theory, which outlines eight stages of psychosocial development, suggests that the successful resolution of each conflict leads to a healthier psychological state and helps pave the way for challenges in the next stage.
in the context of toddlerhood, which typically encompasses the ages of 1 to 3 years, the central conflict identified by erikson is autonomy versus shame and doubt. during this stage, toddlers begin to assert their independence and gain a sense of personal control over physical skills and a growing sense of autonomy. this is evident as they start to walk, talk, and make decisions about what they eat, wear, and play with.
the positive outcome of this stage is developing a sense of autonomy, which erikson describes as the ability to feel confident and secure in one's ability to survive and make decisions. when toddlers are encouraged and supported in their increased independence, they begin to feel secure in their ability to lead others and make decisions.
conversely, if toddlers are overly criticized, overly controlled, or not given the opportunity to assert themselves, they begin to feel inadequate in their ability to survive, and may then become overly dependent upon others, lack self-esteem, and feel a sense of shame or doubt in their own abilities.
it is crucial for caregivers and parents to strike a balance between protecting the child and allowing them the space to explore and grow in independence. successfully navigating this stage of autonomy versus shame and doubt sets the groundwork for a healthy sense of initiative, which becomes crucial in the subsequent stage of erikson's developmental model. failure to successfully navigate this stage can lead to difficulty in later stages, particularly in developing a sense of initiative and confidence in one's abilities, both of which are vital for a child's overall psychological development.
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