A 9-year-old boy is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM). Which stage of Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development is the nurse addressing when teaching this client about insulin injections?

Choice A reason: Autonomy is not the stage of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development that the nurse is addressing when teaching this client about insulin injections. Autonomy is the stage that occurs from 18 months to 3 years of age, when the child develops a sense of independence and self-control. The conflict in this stage is between autonomy and shame and doubt. The nurse may address this stage when teaching the client's parents about how to support their child's autonomy and avoid overprotection or criticism. Choice B reason: Identity is not the stage of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development that the nurse is addressing when teaching this client about insulin injections. Identity is the stage that occurs from 12 to 18 years of age, when the adolescent develops a sense of self and personal identity. The conflict in this stage is between identity and role confusion. The nurse may address this stage when teaching the client about how to cope with the psychosocial challenges of having a chronic condition and how to maintain a positive self-image and self-esteem. Choice C reason: Industry is the stage of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development that the nurse is addressing when teaching this client about insulin injections. Industry is the stage that occurs from 6 to 11 years of age, when the child develops a sense of competence and achievement. The conflict in this stage is between industry and inferiority. The nurse may address this stage when teaching the client about how to manage their diabetes and how to acquire the skills and knowledge needed for self-care and health promotion. Choice D reason: Initiative is not the stage of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development that the nurse is addressing when teaching this client about insulin injections. Initiative is the stage that occurs from 3 to 6 years of age, when the child develops a sense of initiative and creativity. The conflict in this stage is between initiative and guilt. The nurse may address this stage when teaching the client about how to express their feelings and opinions about their diabetes and how to participate in decision-making and problem-solving.