Infancy is marked by vitality: vibrant and seemingly unlimited source of energy (Armstrong, 2007).
Infants need to count on others; need to sense that they are cared for; the world is a secure place
they learn this sense of trust by being held, caressed, and loved
Erikson’s core struggle: trust versus mistrust
significant other provide the needed warmth, cuddling, and attention in order for the child to develop a sense of trust