Final answer:
Erik Erikson views play as essential for children to develop a sense of competence and help them master developmental tasks, fostering their psychological well-being.
Step-by-step explanation:
Erik Erikson, a prominent psychologist known for his psychosocial theory of development, views play as a crucial aspect of a child's development. Erikson's stages of development highlight the importance of social relationships and resolving psychosocial conflicts to develop a healthy personality. In the context of children's play, this means that play serves as a medium for children to experiment with social roles, develop a sense of agency, and build competencies that contribute to their overall psychological well-being. Therefore, play, according to Erikson, is fundamental in helping children gain a sense of competence and mastering the developmental tasks relevant to their stage of growth.