Final answer:
During the infancy stage of Trust vs. Mistrust, the essential question is whether the infant will develop a sense of trust or mistrust in the world based on the responsiveness of their caregivers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The crucial question to be answered during the infancy stage of Trust vs. Mistrust centers around whether an infant will see the world as a secure, predictable place or an unpredictable, possibly frightening environment. This stage, as defined by Erikson's theory, concerns whether infants can rely on their caregivers to meet their needs. If caregivers are responsive and sensitive, an infant develops trust; conversely, if caregivers are unresponsive, an infant may develop mistrust and view the world with anxiety and fear. This stage lays the foundation for an individual's future relationships and their perception of the world around them. Experiences during this period heavily influence whether a child will grow to perceive their environment as safe and supportive or inconsistent and unreliable.