During which developmental stage does a child start to develop personal control and autonomy?

The developmental stage in which a child starts to develop personal control and autonomy is centered on the concepts of autonomy versus shame and doubt. This stage typically occurs during early childhood, roughly between the ages of 1 and 3 years. During this period, children begin to assert their independence, making choices about what they want to do, such as selecting their clothing or deciding whether to use the potty. Successful navigation of this stage fosters a sense of autonomy, confidence, and self-control.

When children are encouraged and supported in their efforts to assert independence, they develop a healthy sense of personal agency. However, if they encounter excessive criticism or overprotection, they may begin to feel doubt in their abilities and experience feelings of shame about their attempts at independence. Thus, this stage is crucial in establishing a child's sense of personal identity and autonomy.

In contrast, the other stages outlined involve different developmental issues. Trust versus mistrust focuses on the infant's sense of security based on the reliability of their caregivers, while industry versus inferiority pertains to a child's ability to work towards goals and competencies, typically occurring during the school years. Intimacy versus isolation, meanwhile, tackles the challenges of forming intimate relationships in young adulthood. Each of these stages addresses important