Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPA) Early Childhood Education Practice Test

The conflict between trust and mistrust is associated with the oral sensory stage, which is the first stage in Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development. This developmental stage typically occurs from birth to about 18 months. During this period, infants learn to trust their caregivers to meet their basic needs, such as food, comfort, and safety. The consistent and reliable response of caregivers leads to the development of trust, whereas neglect or inconsistency can foster feelings of mistrust.

In this context, successfully navigating the oral sensory stage sets the foundation for future stages of development. A strong sense of trust allows children to develop healthy relationships and a positive self-image as they grow. The significance of this stage emphasizes the crucial role of early caregiving in shaping an individual’s emotional and social development later in life.