Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

Which of the following represents the second stage of Erikson's psychosocial stages?

1. Intimacy v. Isolation

2. Autonomy v. Shame and Doubt

3. Identity v. Role Confusion

4. Generativity v. Stagnation

The correct answer is: Autonomy v. Shame and Doubt

The second stage of Erikson's psychosocial development is Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt. This stage typically occurs between the ages of 1 to 3 years, where children assert their independence by trying to perform tasks on their own. Successfully navigating this stage leads to a sense of autonomy, while failure can result in feelings of shame and doubt about their capabilities. During this stage, caregivers play a pivotal role as their responses to a child's attempts at independence can significantly influence the child’s self-esteem. Positive reinforcement encourages the child to explore their environment and develop a sense of control over their actions, which is foundational for future stages of development. Thus, the correct answer highlights an essential aspect of early childhood development that focuses on the individual's emerging sense of autonomy. The other stages listed refer to different periods in Erikson's framework: Intimacy vs. Isolation relates to young adulthood, Identity vs. Role Confusion pertains to adolescence, and Generativity vs. Stagnation is relevant to middle adulthood. Each stage builds upon the previous ones, but it’s important to recognize where each specifically falls in the lifespan according to Erikson’s theory.