Which developmental stage is characterized by learning rules and engaging in competition?

• A. Trust Vs Mistrust
• B. Autonomy Vs Shame
• C. Industry
• D. Identity Vs Role

Answer: (C)

This is about the school-age period when children start to master skills, learn to follow rules, and engage in competitive activities with peers. In Erikson’s model, this is the stage of industry vs inferiority. When children succeed in mastering tasks like reading, writing, and games with rules, and when their efforts are recognized, they develop a sense of industry and competence. If they repeatedly struggle or receive little encouragement, they may feel inferior and doubt their abilities. This stage typically occurs around ages 5 to 12, aligning with school and social competition. Earlier stages focus on trust vs mistrust (infancy) and autonomy vs shame (toddlerhood), while adolescence centers on identity formation, not the rule-following and competition seen in the school-age years.