Which of the following is a stage in Erikson's theory?

• A. Trust vs mistrust
• B. Sensorimotor
• C. Object permanence
• D. Classical conditioning

Answer: (A)

Erikson's psychosocial theory centers on how people develop a sense of trust and other social outcomes across eight life stages. The first stage happens in the early life period, when a caregiver’s consistent, responsive care helps an infant learn to trust that their needs will be met. When that trust forms, the child gains a sense of security and reliability in relationships; if care is inconsistent or neglectful, mistrust can develop. The other options come from different theories: sensorimotor relates to Piaget’s cognitive development stages, object permanence is a concept from Piaget describing understanding that objects continue to exist even when not seen, and classical conditioning is a learning process from behaviorism. Because the question asks for a stage in Erikson’s theory, the stage involving trust versus mistrust is the correct choice.