When are children who live with overly critical or controlling adults particularly vulnerable?
A. During years two and three, when they're exercising increased autonomy
B. During elementary school, when involved in real task completion
C. During preadolescence, when they have increased motivations toward independence
D. During the first year of life, when they're developing a sense of trust
my answer is a.
To determine the correct answer to this question, we need to understand the developmental stages of children and the potential impact of living with overly critical or controlling adults.
Option A suggests that children are particularly vulnerable during years two and three, when they are exercising increased autonomy. This means they are learning to assert their independence and make choices for themselves.
This answer is indeed correct. During this stage, children are developing their sense of self and exploring their capabilities. Living with overly critical or controlling adults can hinder their ability to develop a healthy sense of autonomy and self-confidence. Excessive criticism or control can undermine their growing independence and cause psychological harm.
Now, let's examine the other options to see why they are incorrect:
Option B suggests that children are vulnerable during elementary school when involved in real task completion. While it is true that criticism or control during this stage can have an impact, it is not the stage when children are particularly vulnerable.
Option C states that preadolescence is the stage when children are vulnerable due to their increased motivations toward independence. While preadolescence does bring about increased motivations for independence, it is not the most vulnerable stage in this context.
Option D proposes that vulnerability occurs during the first year of life when children are developing a sense of trust. Although the first year of life is crucial for developing trust, this stage is not specifically related to the impact of living with critical or controlling adults.
In summary, the correct answer is A. Children who live with overly critical or controlling adults are particularly vulnerable during years two and three, as this is when they are exercising increased autonomy.