Which stage of Erikson's theory is characterized by alienation and avoidance of commitment?

The stage characterized by alienation and avoidance of commitment is indeed Intimacy vs. Isolation. In this stage, which typically occurs during young adulthood, individuals are faced with the challenge of forming intimate relationships while balancing their own independence. Success in this stage leads to strong, meaningful connections with others, but failure can result in feelings of isolation, loneliness, and a reluctance to engage in close relationships. Individuals who struggle with this conflict may avoid commitment altogether, leading to a sense of alienation as they miss out on forming deep and lasting bonds.

The other choices represent different psychosocial challenges at other stages of development. Generativity vs. Stagnation relates to middle adulthood, focusing on contributions to society and the next generation. Integrity vs. Despair pertains to late adulthood, reflecting on life achievements and regrets. Trust vs. Mistrust is the first stage of development, involving the formation of trust in caregivers and the environment. Each of these stages addresses distinct developmental crises that occur at varying ages in a person's life, but they do not specifically encapsulate the feelings of alienation and avoidance of commitment found in the Intimacy vs. Isolation stage.