In Erikson's psychosocial development theory, what is the term used for the challenge at each stage?

• A. Habit
• B. Trait
• C. Crisis
• D. Trauma

Answer: (C)

In Erikson's theory, each stage presents a psychosocial crisis—a key turning point or challenge that shapes personality as it is resolved. The term here is crisis, reflecting a critical period where the individual must balance personal needs with social expectations. When these crises are resolved positively, a virtue (like hope, will, purpose, or competence) tends to develop; unresolved crises can lead to difficulties later on. For other terms: a habit is a pattern of behavior, a trait is a stable characteristic, and trauma is a distressing event—none capture the stage-specific challenge Erikson identifies.