Light

Trust vs. Mistrust

Definition

This is the first stage of Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, occurring from birth to approximately 18 months. It centers on the infant's basic needs being met by the parents and how this interaction leads to trust or mistrust.

Analogy

Think of it like planting a seed. If you water it regularly (meeting its needs), it will grow into a healthy plant (trust). But if you neglect it and don't provide enough water, it will wither and die (mistrust).

Related terms

Attachment: The deep emotional bond between an infant and their primary caregiver, which plays a crucial role in the child's ability to form relationships later in life.

Secure Attachment: A type of attachment characterized by infants who will explore freely while the mother is present, will engage with strangers, are often visibly upset when the mother departs but happy when she returns.

Insecure Attachment: A type of attachment that can take different forms but is generally characterized by unusual behavior when the child is separated from their primary caregiver or when they return.