The positive outcome 'Will' is associated with which Erikson stage?

• A. Trust vs Mistrust
• B. Autonomy vs Shame/Doubt
• C. Initiative vs Guilt
• D. Industry vs Inferiority

Answer: (B)

In Erikson’s theory, each stage brings a specific virtue that grows when a child experiences balanced support and safe, empowering choices. The virtue Will arises during the Autonomy versus Shame/Doubt stage, which typically unfolds around ages 1 to 3 as toddlers begin to try things for themselves.

When caregivers encourage trying new tasks, offer simple, safe choices, and set appropriate limits, a child learns that their actions have effects and that they can act with intention. This builds a sense of autonomy and a confident willingness to take initiative within boundaries, which is the essence of Will. If support is too restricting or overly critical, the child may doubt their abilities and feel shame about trying, which can undermine that budding independence.

For context, other stages in Erikson’s framework lead to different virtues: Trust versus Mistrust yields Hope, Initiative versus Guilt yields Purpose, and Industry versus Inferiority yields Competence.