In Erikson's Psychosocial Theory, which stage focuses on taking initiative and planning activities?

• A. Initiative vs. Guilt
• B. Identity vs. Role Diffusion
• C. Intimacy vs. Isolation
• D. Ego-integrity vs. Despair

Answer: (A)

Taking initiative and planning activities is the hallmark of the stage where children learn to assert themselves, organize play, and start projects. In this phase, occurring in early childhood, kids push to lead tasks, propose activities, and make decisions. When adults support this drive—encouraging planning, praising independent efforts, and guiding rather than punishing—the child develops a sense of initiative and purpose. If their attempts are constantly thwarted or criticized, they can feel guilty about taking the lead, which may suppress future initiative.

Other stages focus on different tasks: forming a stable sense of self during adolescence; building close, intimate relationships in young adulthood; and reflecting on life with a sense of integrity in later years. These do not center on initiating and planning activities in the way described.