What is the first conflict in Erikson's psychosocial theory?

In Erikson's psychosocial theory, the first conflict is Trust vs. Mistrust. This stage occurs in infancy, generally from birth to about 18 months. During this critical period, the infant's primary task is to develop a sense of trust in their caregivers and the world around them. If caregivers provide reliable care and affection, the infant will begin to develop a sense of trust, which leads to feelings of safety and security. Conversely, if caregivers are inconsistent, neglectful, or abusive, the infant may develop mistrust, leading to anxiety and insecurities.

This foundational conflict sets the stage for all subsequent stages of development. The successful resolution of the Trust vs. Mistrust conflict yields a strong sense of security, which is essential for healthy emotional and social development. This stage impacts how individuals relate to others and manage future challenges throughout their lives.