According to Erik Erikson's theory, which task represents the primary developmental task for an 8-year-old child?

The primary developmental task for an 8-year-old child, according to Erik Erikson's theory, is to develop a new sense of accomplishment. At this stage, which Erikson identifies as the Industry vs. Inferiority stage, children begin to focus on mastering new skills and tasks, leading to a sense of competence and achievement. As they engage in activities such as schoolwork, sports, and hobbies, they are motivated to succeed and develop a sense of pride in their abilities.

This period is crucial for children because they seek validation and reinforcement from peers and adults, which fosters their self-esteem. Success in this stage results in a feeling of industry, where children view themselves as capable and industrious, while failure can lead to feelings of inferiority and self-doubt. Therefore, the aspect of developing a sense of accomplishment is key to navigating this important developmental milestone.

In contrast, gaining independence from parents typically occurs during earlier years, and developing trust emphasizes an earlier stage in infancy. Mastering useful skills and tools is certainly a part of this developmental task but is encompassed within the broader achievement and accomplishment theme of the Industry vs. Inferiority stage.