A nurse is assessing the psychosocial development of a toddler. Which of the following should the nurse recognize that this stage is characterized by?

A. Erikson's stage of initiative versus guilt: This stage typically occurs during the preschool years (ages 3 to 6), when children begin initiating activities and asserting control through social interactions and play. B. Demonstrations of sexual curiosity: Although some curiosity may occur, pronounced sexual curiosity is more typical during the preschool years, not the toddler stage, and it is not a hallmark of toddler psychosocial development. C. Imaginary playmates: Imaginary friends commonly appear in preschool-aged children (around 3 to 6 years of age) and are part of normal imaginative development, not characteristic of toddlers. D. Negative behaviors characterized by the need for autonomy: Toddlers are in Erikson’s stage of autonomy vs. shame and doubt. They frequently exhibit negativism (e.g., saying "no") as a means of asserting independence and developing a sense of autonomy.