Which stage of development involves learning to control actions and achieve tasks independently?

The stage of development that focuses on learning to control actions and achieve tasks independently is indeed autonomy vs. shame. This stage is part of Erik Erikson's psychosocial development theory, which outlines eight critical conflicts that shape individual growth from infancy through adulthood.

During the autonomy vs. shame stage, which typically occurs between the ages of 1 and 3 years, children are developing a sense of personal control over physical skills and a sense of independence. They learn to perform tasks such as potty training, dressing themselves, and making simple choices. Successfully navigating this stage leads to a sense of autonomy and confidence while failures may lead to feelings of shame and doubt, impacting future development.

Understanding this stage emphasizes the importance of providing children with opportunities to explore and learn on their own, which fosters independence and self-esteem. The other stages listed represent different conflicts in Erikson's theory that occur at various ages and focus on different aspects of social and emotional development, but they do not specifically center on the theme of independence and control over one's actions in quite the same way.