At what age does the psychosocial stage of "Trust vs Mistrust" occur?

The psychosocial stage of "Trust vs Mistrust" occurs from birth to 18 months, according to the developmental theory proposed by Erik Erikson. During this critical period, infants are heavily reliant on caregivers for their basic needs such as nourishment, comfort, and security. The responses and care provided by the caregivers will significantly influence the child’s perception of the world and their ability to trust others.

If needs are consistently met, the infant develops a sense of trust, leading to a strong foundation for future emotional and social development. Conversely, inconsistent or inadequate care can foster a sense of mistrust, which may affect an individual's ability to form trusting relationships later in life. Understanding this stage is essential, especially in fields like counseling, as it sets the groundwork for how individuals interact with their environment and relationships as they grow older. The other age ranges are associated with different psychosocial stages such as autonomy, initiative, and industry, which build upon the foundational work of trust established earlier in life.