At what age does the first conflict in Erikson's theory take place?

In Erikson's psychosocial development theory, the first conflict occurs during the stage known as "trust vs. mistrust," which takes place from birth to approximately 1 year of age. During this critical period, infants are developing their primary sense of security and trust in their caregivers and the world around them. The consistency and quality of care an infant receives directly influence their ability to trust others. If caregivers provide dependable care, the infant learns to trust and is more likely to feel secure in their environment. Conversely, inconsistent or neglectful care can lead to feelings of mistrust and insecurity.

Understanding this foundational stage is essential as it sets the stage for future stages of development. Positive outcomes during this initial conflict shape the individual's approach to relationships and emotional health throughout their life. This early experience has far-reaching implications, influencing later stages of development that focus on autonomy and initiative, by establishing a strong, trusting relationship with caregivers.