According to Erikson, what conflict is resolved during the second stage of emotional and social development?

Prepare for the AEPA Special Education: Early Childhood Exam. Review comprehensive content with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

The conflict resolved during the second stage of emotional and social development, according to Erikson, is indeed autonomy versus shame and doubt. This stage typically occurs between the ages of 1 and 3 years. During this time, children begin to assert their independence and develop a sense of personal control over physical skills and a sense of independence.

As children engage in activities such as potty training, dressing themselves, and exploring their environment, they are developing autonomy. Supportive and encouraging responses from caregivers lead to a strong sense of autonomy, while overly critical or controlling responses can foster feelings of shame and doubt about their abilities. This foundational stage is critical as it sets the tone for the child's self-esteem and confidence in their capabilities.

In contrast, the other options represent different stages in Erikson’s psychosocial development. Trust versus mistrust occurs in infancy, industry versus inferiority emerges in the school-age years, and identity versus role confusion is relevant during adolescence. Each stage builds upon the previous ones, but autonomy is specifically linked with the second stage, highlighting the importance of navigating this balance early in a child's development.

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