Final answer:
During the early childhood stage of Autonomy vs. Shame & Doubt, the critical question is whether a child can develop a sense of independence by making choices and exerting control over simple actions. Success in this stage leads to confidence and a strong sense of self, whereas failure can result in doubt and feelings of shame.
Step-by-step explanation:
The important question to be answered during the early childhood stage of Autonomy vs. Shame & Doubt is essentially 'Can I do things myself or must I always rely on others?' This stage, as described by Erikson, is characterized by toddlers (ages 1-3 years) beginning to explore their environment and asserting some level of control over their actions, leading to a budding sense of independence. A critical aspect of this stage is the opportunity for children to make basic choices, such as selecting their clothing, which can significantly impact their emerging sense of autonomy.
If children are provided with the chance to exert autonomy and are met with encouragement, they will likely develop a stronger sense of self and feel confident in their abilities. Conversely, if they are excessively restricted and denied these opportunities, they may begin to doubt their abilities, which can precipitate feelings of shame and potentially contribute to lower self-esteem. This stage is crucial for forming a foundation upon which later stages of development, such as initiative versus guilt and industry versus inferiority, will build.