Which scenario is typical of the industry versus inferiority stage?
Group of answer choices
Vanessa says, “My parents never let me do anything!”
Theo decides to stop taking piano lessons.
Rudy is having difficulty in learning math, but he continues to practice.
Cliff says that his girlfriend, Claire, doesn’t understand him.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
Rudy is having difficulty in learning math, but he continues to practice.
Explanation:
The industry versus inferiority stage is a key developmental phase identified by Erik Erikson in his theory of psychosocial development. This stage typically occurs between the ages of 6 and 12 years and focuses on children striving to develop a sense of competence and mastery in their skills and abilities.
- Core Conflict: During this stage, children are motivated to demonstrate their abilities in academics, sports, and social interactions. Success leads to a sense of industry (competence and accomplishment), while repeated failures can result in feelings of inferiority.
- Typical Scenario: Rudy’s situation exemplifies this stage because:
- He is facing a challenge (difficulty in learning math).
- Despite struggles, he continues to persevere, showing determination to improve his competence.
- His effort reflects the internal drive to overcome obstacles and gain confidence in his skills, a hallmark of the “industry” aspect.
- Other Scenarios:
- Vanessa’s statement reflects a struggle with autonomy and control, which aligns more with the earlier “autonomy versus shame and doubt” stage.
- Theo stopping piano lessons could signify a lack of motivation or interest but doesn’t directly reflect the core challenge of competence versus inferiority.
- Cliff’s relationship struggles align with Erikson’s later stage of “intimacy versus isolation,” which typically occurs in early adulthood.
- Impact of Resolution: Successfully navigating the industry versus inferiority stage helps children build a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence, preparing them for future challenges. Failure to resolve it can lead to feelings of inadequacy that may persist into later life stages.
In summary, Rudy’s perseverance in the face of difficulty reflects the essence of the industry versus inferiority stage, where children work to overcome challenges and build competence.