According to Erikson's theory, what is the primary developmental task of a toddler (ages 1-3)?

Erik Erikson's psychosocial stages identify AUTONOMY vs. SHAME AND DOUBT as the primary conflict of toddlerhood (approximately ages 1-3). During this stage the child is developing a sense of personal control and independence. Key behaviors include: insisting on doing things independently ('me do it'); negativism and oppositional behavior ('no'); parallel play (alongside but not yet cooperative with peers); developing self-feeding, walking, and early language skills. Nursing implications: encourage independence within safe limits; offer limited, simple choices ('Do you want the red cup or the blue cup?'); avoid shaming the child for accidents or failures; recognize that toddler negativism is developmentally normal. TRUST vs. MISTRUST is the infant stage (birth to 18 months) — centered on whether the caregiver is reliable and nurturing. INITIATIVE vs. GUILT is the preschool stage (ages 3-6) — the child explores purpose and pursues goals. INDUSTRY vs. INFERIORITY is the school-age stage (ages 6-12) — centered on competence and achievement. LPN/LVNs are expected to understand normal developmental milestones to recognize deviations and provide anticipatory guidance to families. Toddler safety concerns include: choking hazards (foods must be cut small, small toys avoided), falls, poisoning (medications must be locked away), drowning (never leave unattended near water).