A teenage male refuses to wear the clothes his mother bought for him. He states he wants to look like the other kids at school and wear the types of clothes they wear. The nurse explains that this is related to internal conflicts of which of the following?

Choice A rationale Trust versus mistrust is the first stage of Erikson's psychosocial development, occurring from birth to about 18 months. Successful completion results in confidence and security, while failure leads to anxiety and mistrust of the world. This stage is not relevant to the adolescent's struggle for social acceptance and self-image among peers. Choice B rationale Autonomy versus shame and doubt is Erikson's second stage, typically seen in the toddler period (18 months to 3 years). This stage focuses on gaining independence in basic self-care activities, such as toilet training and walking. The conflict is centered on self-control and the ability to act on one's own, which differs from the adolescent need for peer identity. Choice C rationale Identity versus role confusion is Erikson's fifth stage, which is the central developmental task of adolescence. During this stage, the teenager is trying to figure out "who they are" and where they fit in the world, often through experimentation with different roles, values, and peer groups. The desire to dress like others reflects the search for a sense of belonging and a unified self-concept. Choice D rationale Initiative versus inferiority is Erikson's fourth stage, usually seen in school-age children (6 to 12 years). This stage focuses on developing a sense of competence and pride in schoolwork and other activities, comparing their abilities with peers. While peer interaction is important, the core conflict is about competence and achievement, not the broader self-identity search seen in the teenage years.