In Erikson's Trust vs. Mistrust stage, what do infants learn?

In the Trust vs. Mistrust stage of Erikson's psychosocial development theory, which occurs from birth to approximately 18 months, infants primarily learn to trust their caregivers. During this critical period, infants rely on their caregivers to meet their basic needs, such as feeding, comfort, and protection. When caregivers consistently respond to these needs in a nurturing and reliable manner, infants develop a sense of trust in their environment and the people around them. This trust forms the foundation for healthy emotional and social development as they grow.

Trust in caregivers fosters a secure attachment, enabling infants to explore the world with confidence. Conversely, if caregivers are neglectful or inconsistent in providing care, infants may develop a sense of mistrust, which can lead to difficulties in forming relationships later in life. Therefore, the essence of this stage is about learning to trust, which is essential for positive psychological outcomes.