According to Erikson's autonomy versus shame and doubt stage, what is the primary aim of interventions for toddlers in the hospital?

• A. Support independence and offer safe choices to foster autonomy while minimizing frustration and dependence.
• B. Limit autonomy to simplify care and ensure safety.
• C. Promote complete independence from caregivers.
• D. Avoid involving families to prevent confusion.

Answer: (A)

Toddlers moving through this stage are driven to do things themselves and to feel in control of their world. In a hospital setting, the goal of care is to support that need for autonomy while keeping everything safe. By offering safe, developmentally appropriate choices and encouraging self-care tasks, you help the child experience mastery and competence instead of frustration. This reduces the risk of feelings of shame or doubt about their abilities, which can come from being overly restricted or treated as passive. Family involvement reinforces a secure base and consistent routines, which further supports independence and reduces stress. So the best approach is to promote independence and provide safe choices to foster autonomy while minimizing frustration and dependence.