According to Erikson's theory, what is the consequence if a child fails to resolve conflicts at a developmental stage?

According to Erikson's psychosocial development theory, each developmental stage is characterized by a specific conflict that individuals must resolve. If a child fails to resolve the conflict at a given stage, they will carry unresolved issues into later stages of development. This results in lasting effects on their personality and behavior, often leading them to exhibit tendencies or characteristics associated with that earlier stage, regardless of their age.

For example, if a child struggles with the conflict of trust versus mistrust and does not develop a sense of trust, they may struggle with forming secure relationships later in life. This tendency to revert to earlier conflicts and behaviors highlights the importance of each stage in shaping an individual's overall development.

The other options propose outcomes that do not align with Erikson's theory. Progressing to the next stage without issues overlooks the significant impact that unresolved conflicts can have on future development. Forgetting about the stage contradicts the idea that these unresolved issues persist and influence behavior over time. Developing advanced coping skills is not inherently tied to failing to resolve conflicts; rather, it is the resolution of conflicts that can contribute to an individual's ability to cope healthily.