What is the primary focus of the Autonomy vs Shame stage in Erikson's theory?

The primary focus of the Autonomy vs Shame stage in Erikson's psychosocial development theory centers on the child's burgeoning sense of independence and control over their actions. This stage typically occurs between the ages of one and three years, a critical period when children begin to explore their environment and assert their autonomy.

During this stage, toddlers are encouraged to develop self-control and a sense of personal agency, which is essential for healthy emotional development. Successful resolution of this conflict leads to feelings of autonomy and confidence, while failure can result in feelings of shame or doubt about one's abilities.

In contrast, rigorous parental guidance might imply an overbearing approach, which can inhibit the child's ability to make choices and learn from natural consequences. Avoiding social interactions with peers is outside the realm of this stage, as peer exploration becomes more significant in later stages. Lastly, the exploration of abstract concepts is not a focus of this phase, as the stage primarily concerns tangible skills and independence in the child's physical and immediate social environment.