In the industry vs inferiority stage, what must children cope with?

During the industry vs. inferiority stage, which occurs approximately between the ages of 6 to 12, children are typically faced with new responsibilities and demands as they begin to engage more with the world around them. This stage, defined by Erik Erikson's psychosocial development theory, emphasizes the importance of children learning to become competent in various skills and tasks, such as in schoolwork, sports, and social interactions.

The ability to handle these new responsibilities leads to a sense of industry, or competence, while failure to manage these expectations can result in feelings of inferiority. Children in this phase are learning how to work with others, take on school-related tasks, and balance friendships—all of which contribute to their self-esteem and self-worth.

Understanding this stage is crucial because it shapes how children perceive their abilities and starts to form their identity. The development of a strong sense of competence can enhance their motivation and effort in future challenges, while the experience of failure can lead to a lack of confidence. Therefore, coping with new responsibilities and demands is a central feature of this developmental phase.