Trust vs. Mistrust: The Foundation of Development

The Royal Blue Candle

Good morning, everyone! This is Dina from the Royal Blue Candle. Happy Tuesday! In today's episode, we delve into the first stage of Erik Erikson's theory of psychological development: Trust versus Mistrust.

During the first year of life, from birth to around 18 months, infants learn to trust or mistrust the world based on their interactions with caregivers, primarily their parents. When an infant's basic needs are consistently met with warmth and responsiveness, they develop a sense of trust in the world and their caregivers. This trust forms the foundation for a sense of security and optimism as they grow older.

Conversely, if an infant's needs are not met, or if they experience inconsistent or unresponsive caregiving, they may develop a sense of mistrust. This can lead to feelings of insecurity, anxiety, and a general mistrust of others and the world around them. Successfully navigating this stage is crucial for healthy development in the subsequent stages of Erikson's theory, setting the stage for future relationships and interactions.

Thank you for joining us today. Wishing you a wonderful day ahead. Be safe, and God bless!