According to Erikson, what is the major developmental task of adolescence?

• A. Identity formation versus role confusion
• B. Trust versus mistrust
• C. Autonomy versus doubt
• D. Industry versus inferiority

Answer: (A)

Adolescence centers on forming a stable sense of self through exploring different roles, beliefs, and goals. According to Erikson, this is the crisis of identity formation versus role confusion. When young people actively explore who they are—values, career paths, beliefs, and relationships—they build a coherent, enduring sense of self. Successfully navigating this crisis leads to fidelity, the ability to commit to meaningful values and roles and to share that identity with others. If exploration is incomplete and a clear identity isn’t formed, individuals may experience role confusion—uncertainty about who they are, what they believe, and what they want to become—often accompanied by inconsistent behavior and a shaky sense of direction. This solid sense of self also supports later development, such as forming intimate relationships in adulthood. The other stages listed occur earlier in life (trust versus mistrust in infancy, autonomy versus doubt in toddlerhood, industry versus inferiority in school-age years), which is why the adolescent task is specifically identity formation versus role confusion.