APA (edition "APA 6") Psychology and Education

Developing Autonomy

Eriksons second psychosocial stage, autonomy versus shame and doubt, describes the childs need for autonomy at a time when many developmental milestones are occurring.  Early childhood caregivers and parents can work together to support childrens development by guiding children with autonomy and developing socially and culturally appropriate behaviors. 

For this discussion, choose one of the challenges to overcome in helping children develop autonomy:

Doubt/fear
Mistrust/insecurity
Tantrums
Control/power struggle
Unregulated emotions
Separation anxiety
Stranger anxiety
Compose a sample letter to parents that include the following:

Characteristics of the behavior(s)
A strategy to deal with this particular challenge
Socially appropriate responses and actions to help the child develop autonomy
A recommendation for one resource to help parents learn more