At what age range does the Young Childhood stage occur according to Erikson's theory?

The Young Childhood stage, according to Erikson's psychosocial development theory, corresponds to the age range of 1 to 3 years. During this period, children face the developmental challenge of autonomy vs. shame and doubt. This stage is critical as toddlers begin to assert their independence, exploring their environment and making choices, such as deciding what to wear or what to eat. Successfully navigating this stage results in a sense of autonomy and self-confidence, while failure can lead to feelings of doubt and shame about their abilities.

Children in this age group are developing skills like potty training and self-feeding, which are significant milestones in fostering independence. Understanding this stage helps caregivers and educators support young children's exploration and encourage their growing autonomy. In contrast, the other age ranges listed represent different stages in Erikson's theory, each with unique psychosocial challenges.