Which theory outlines stages such as Trust, Autonomy, Identity, and Intimacy as core developmental tasks?

• A. Erikson's psychosocial theory
• B. Piaget's cognitive development theory
• C. Kohlberg's moral development theory
• D. Freud's psychosexual theory

Answer: (A)

Trust, Autonomy, Identity, and Intimacy are central psychosocial crises described in Erikson's theory. This framework views development as a series of eight life-span stages, each presenting a key conflict to resolve. When trust is established in infancy, a foundation of security and hopeful expectation forms. In the toddler years, negotiating Autonomy helps a child develop a sense of independence and will. During adolescence, the main challenge is forming Identity—knowing who they are and how they fit into the world. In young adulthood, the focus shifts to Intimacy—building close, meaningful relationships. Successfully navigating these stages contributes to healthy personality and functioning across later life. Other theories focus on different processes: Piaget on how thinking and cognition develop, Kohlberg on moral reasoning, and Freud on psychosexual phases, rather than these social-emotional crises across the lifespan.