Which statement best describes the infancy trust stage outcomes?

Which statement best describes the infancy trust stage outcomes?

• A. The goal is to establish independence
• B. The goal is to achieve intimate relationships
• C. The goal is to reflect on life
• D. If the goal is not met, the child may become withdrawn and avoid interaction with others

Answer: (D)

In infancy, the key idea is forming trust through reliable, responsive caregiving. When an infant’s basic needs are consistently met—food, soothing, comfort, and affection—the child learns the world is a safe place and can begin to trust others, fostering a sense of hope. If that trust goal is not met, the child may develop mistrust, which can show up as wariness, fear, or withdrawal from social interaction because they cannot rely on others. The statement describes withdrawal as a consequence of unmet trust, which lines up with the expected outcome of this early stage. The other options reflect later developmental tasks: independence (autonomy) in toddlerhood, intimate relationships (intimacy) in young adulthood, and reflecting on life (integrity) in older adulthood.

In infancy, the key idea is forming trust through reliable, responsive caregiving. When an infant’s basic needs are consistently met—food, soothing, comfort, and affection—the child learns the world is a safe place and can begin to trust others, fostering a sense of hope. If that trust goal is not met, the child may develop mistrust, which can show up as wariness, fear, or withdrawal from social interaction because they cannot rely on others. The statement describes withdrawal as a consequence of unmet trust, which lines up with the expected outcome of this early stage. The other options reflect later developmental tasks: independence (autonomy) in toddlerhood, intimate relationships (intimacy) in young adulthood, and reflecting on life (integrity) in older adulthood.