Oklahoma State Assessment Test (OSAT) Early Childhood Education Practice Test

Which stage encourages children to explore their environments and make sense of the world around them?

1. Trust vs mistrust

2. Initiative vs guilt

3. Generativity vs stagnation

4. Integrity vs despair

The correct answer is: Initiative vs guilt

The stage that encourages children to explore their environments and make sense of the world around them is initiative vs. guilt. This stage, as described by Erik Erikson in his psychosocial development theory, typically occurs between the ages of three and six years. During this period, children begin to assert control and power over their environment through directed play and other social interactions. As they engage in play, they take initiative in various activities, which fosters their sense of exploration and curiosity. This exploration is a crucial part of their development as it allows them to learn about cause and effect, develop problem-solving skills, and cultivate their creativity. While children in this stage may experience guilt if their initiative is met with excessive criticism or punishment, the primary focus is on their active participation and exploration of the world. The other stages listed, such as trust vs. mistrust and generativity vs. stagnation, pertain to different developmental phases. Trust vs. mistrust occurs in infancy and focuses on the development of trust in caregivers, while generativity vs. stagnation addresses the middle adulthood phase, emphasizing the contributions one makes to society. Integrity vs. despair pertains to older adults reflecting on their life experiences. Each of these stages addresses important developmental tasks, but initiative vs