In which stage do children primarily focus on developing their self-identity?

The stage in which children primarily focus on developing their self-identity is Identity vs. Role Confusion. This stage typically occurs during adolescence, around the ages of 12 to 18, a critical period where individuals explore various roles and integrate them into a cohesive sense of self. During this time, adolescents engage in self-reflection, question their values, and experiment with different identities based on social feedback and personal beliefs. Successfully navigating this stage leads to a strong sense of identity, which is crucial for personal development and future relationships.

In contrast, the other stages focus on different developmental tasks and challenges. For example, Intimacy vs. Isolation deals primarily with forming intimate relationships and grappling with social connections in young adulthood. Autonomy vs. Doubt/Shame focuses on children's ability to assert themselves and develop independence during early childhood. Lastly, Integrity vs. Despair is related to reflecting on life and deriving a sense of fulfillment during later adulthood. Each stage targets distinct aspects of human development, but it is the Identity vs. Role Confusion stage that specifically addresses the formation and understanding of one's self-identity.