The first stage of Erikson's psychosocial theory involves an infant's need to do what?

a. Develop a basic sense of trust.

b. Explore and manipulate objects.

c. Initiate intellectual or motor tasks.

d. Receive food necessary for survival.

A. Develop a basic sense of trust. Erikson's first psychosocial crisis occurs during the first year or so of life, and this crisis is of trust vs. mistrust. During this stage the infant is uncertain about the world in which they live. To resolve these feelings of uncertainty the infant looks towards their primary caregiver for stability and consistency of care, developing a basic sense of trust.