Which age group corresponds to Erik Erikson's stage of 'Trust vs. Mistrust'?

The stage of 'Trust vs. Mistrust' corresponds to the age group of birth to 1 year because it is the first of Erik Erikson's eight stages of psychosocial development. During this time, infants are reliant on their caregivers for basic needs, such as food, comfort, and affection. If these needs are consistently met, the child develops a sense of trust in their caregivers and the world around them. This foundational sense of security is crucial, as it sets the stage for future stages of development.

In contrast, other age groups listed correspond to different stages in Erikson's theory. The ages 1 to 3 years fall under the stage of 'Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt,' where toddlers begin to assert their independence. The ages 4 to 5 years relate to 'Initiative vs. Guilt,' emphasizing the development of initiative and the ability to plan activities. Finally, the age group of 6 to 12 years aligns with the stage of 'Industry vs. Inferiority,' focusing on the child’s ability to work and cooperate with others. Understanding these distinctions is key to grasping Erikson's developmental framework as it relates to different life stages.