According to Erik Erikson, the first human developmental stage focuses on which characteristic?

The first human developmental stage according to Erik Erikson is centered on the characteristic of trust. This stage occurs during infancy, typically from birth to about 18 months, and is known as the "Trust vs. Mistrust" stage. During this critical time, infants depend on their caregivers to provide for their basic needs such as food, comfort, and affection. When caregivers consistently meet these needs, the infant learns to trust that the world is a safe place, and they develop a sense of security. This foundational trust becomes essential for future emotional and relational well-being, influencing how individuals perceive and interact with the world throughout their lives.

The other options reflect later stages in Erikson's theory. Intimacy relates to young adulthood and the ability to form intimate relationships, autonomy pertains to the stage of early childhood where children learn independence, and identity emphasizes the adolescent phase where individuals explore and establish their individual identity.