At what age range does Erikson's stage of Initiative vs Guilt occur?

Erikson's stage of Initiative vs Guilt occurs during the age range of 3 to 5 years. This stage is critical for young children as they begin to assert control over their environment and develop a sense of initiative. During this time, they engage in more complex play and begin to interact with peers, which fosters a sense of leadership, decision-making, and exploration of their capabilities.

Children who successfully develop initiative feel a sense of ambition and are encouraged to try new things without fear of failure. On the other hand, if their attempts are met with criticism or discouragement, they may begin to experience feelings of guilt or inadequacy related to their explorations and initiatives. This foundational stage is crucial for their emotional development and helps set the groundwork for later stages of growth, influencing their confidence and autonomy in subsequent life phases.