Question

Module 3 Discussion 1

After reading the information in chapter 9, imagine meeting Josh and Kara, a young couple with a 1-month-old infant at home. Their parents have told them over and over not to pick up the baby every time she is crying because she will end up spoiled. Discuss Erik Erikson's first stage of psychosocial development and how he would respond to that advice based on his first stage (Trust versus Mistrust) of psychosocial development.

Answer 1

Erik Erikson's first stage of psychosocial development is Trust versus Mistrust, which occurs during infancy. Based on this stage, Erikson would respond to the advice given to Josh and Kara by saying that it is important for infants to develop basic trust, and that responding to their cries with comfort and care is crucial for their healthy development.