In Trust vs Mistrust, what helps the child develop trust?

• A. Reliable caregiving
• B. Strict discipline
• C. Encouraging risk-taking
• D. Early independence

Answer: (A)

At the heart of this concept is how trust develops in infancy. In the trust vs. mistrust stage, the infant forms a sense of reliability about the world through caregivers who respond consistently and meet basic needs. Reliable caregiving means being available to feed, soothe, protect, and comfort, and keeping routines predictable. When these needs are met promptly and warmly, the child learns that others can be depended on, creating a foundation of trust that supports later exploration and relationships. The other options miss this essential dynamic: strict discipline can undermine warmth and security; encouraging risk-taking is more relevant to later developmental steps; and early independence doesn’t acknowledge the infant’s need to rely on caregivers. In practice, you’d support trust by ensuring steady, compassionate interactions, minimizing unnecessary separations, and clearly explaining procedures to families so care feels predictable and safe.