Which stage is characterized by a child’s imagination and learning to perform adult roles, with a sense of guilt if initiation of activities is not successful?

• A. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt
• B. Initiative vs. Guilt
• C. Identity vs. Role Confusion
• D. Intimacy vs. Isolation

Answer: (B)

In Erikson’s framework, the stage where a child’s imagination flourishes and she begins to initiate activities, often trying out adult roles, is Initiative vs. Guilt. At this stage, children gain a sense of purpose by planning and leading activities; success in these initiatives builds confidence and a feeling that they can influence their world. If their attempts are dismissed or if they feel responsible for failing to start or complete activities, they may develop guilt about acting on their own. This often happens around ages 3 to 6 and helps shape their willingness to take initiative in the future. The other stages involve different tasks: autonomy and shame focus on independence and self-control, identity on forming a sense of self during adolescence, and intimacy on forming close relationships in early adulthood.