Which age range corresponds to the Erikson stage Autonomy vs Shame and Doubt?

• A. 18 months - 3 years
• B. Infants - 18 months
• C. 3 - 6 years
• D. 5-13 years

Answer: (A)

Autonomy vs Shame and Doubt centers on the toddler years, when children begin to try things for themselves and make simple choices. This sense of independence emerges around 18 months and continues to about 3 years. When caregivers support these attempts—allowing safe self-feeding, dressing, toilet training, and decision-making—children build a sense of autonomy and confidence in their abilities. If attempts at independence are met with constant criticism, overcontrol, or punishment, the child may develop shame and doubt about what they can do.

For context, the stage before this is trust vs mistrust in infancy, and the stage after is initiative vs guilt in the preschool years, with industry vs inferiority following in the school-age years.