Final answer:
Rhea Paul indicates that by age 2, children start showing a strong need for autonomy, asserting their independence through choices in their environment. As they progress to age 5, they further develop this independence, initiating tasks, and carrying out plans.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Rhea Paul, children have a strong need to make some of their own decisions and function somewhat independently starting from the age of 2 years old. This development stage is characterized by toddlers learning they can control their actions and act on their environment. The primary task for a toddler is to resolve the issue of autonomy versus shame and doubt, where they establish independence by making basic decisions, such as picking their clothes or toys, sometimes referred to as the "me do it" stage. By the time they are five years old, children's cognitive and psychosocial development allows for more complex decision-making abilities. They are able to display autonomy, initiate tasks, and carry out plans, thus contributing to a positive sense of self. This continues to evolve as they grow, allowing them to identify their own personality traits and comparing themselves with their peers.