A nurse is caring for an infant whose caregiver comforts them as soon as they cry. The nurse should identify that the client is experiencing which of the following stages of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development?

Choice A reason : The "Good boy-nice girl" orientation is part of Kohlberg's Conventional level of moral development. In this stage, individuals are motivated by the desire to maintain relationships and gain approval from others. They make decisions based on what will please others and show concern for others by being "nice." This stage does not typically involve challenging rules but rather adhering to them to maintain social harmony⁴.

Choice B reason : The "Punishment and obedience" orientation is the first stage of Kohlberg's Preconventional level. Here, the focus is on direct consequences to the individual : actions are judged as good if they help avoid punishment. This stage is characterized by a literal obedience to rules and authority to avoid negative consequences, not by challenging them⁴.

Choice C reason : The "Law and order" orientation is the fourth stage, also within the Conventional level. In this stage, individuals are oriented to abiding by the law and respecting authority. They believe in maintaining the social order by following rules and laws. Challenging rules is not a characteristic of this stage; instead, there is a focus on upholding laws as they are⁴.

Choice D reason : The "Social contract" orientation is part of the Postconventional level of moral development, specifically the fifth stage. Individuals in this stage believe that rules and laws are flexible instruments for furthering human purposes. They can argue for the legality or principle behind the rule and may challenge rules that infringe on the rights of individuals. They understand that laws are created by people and can be changed by them. This stage involves the recognition that individual rights sometimes need to be upheld over and above the law⁴.

The correct answer is: B. Identity vs. Role Confusion.

Choice A reason:

Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt occurs in early childhood (ages 1-3). During this stage, children develop a sense of personal control over physical skills and a sense of independence. The focus is on developing autonomy, not on the social dynamics typical of adolescence.

Choice B reason:

Identity vs. Role Confusion is the stage that occurs during adolescence (ages 12-18). In this stage, teenagers explore their independence and develop a sense of self. They may rebel against caregivers and spend more time with peers as they form their identity and navigate social roles. This stage is crucial for developing a personal identity and a sense of direction in life.

Choice C reason:

Integrity vs. Despair occurs in late adulthood (ages 65 and older). This stage involves reflecting on one's life and either coming to terms with it or feeling a sense of despair over missed opportunities. It is not relevant to the experiences of an adolescent.

Choice D reason:

Trust vs. Mistrust is the first stage of Erikson's theory, occurring in infancy (birth to 18 months). This stage focuses on developing trust when caregivers provide reliability, care, and affection. A lack of this leads to mistrust. It does not pertain to the adolescent's developmental challenges.