When ryan brings home his spelling and math papers from the second grade, ryan's stepmother expresses pride in his work and posts the papers on the refrigerator for the other family members to see. in terms of erikson's theory of psychosocial development, ryan's stepmother is fostering a sense of in ryan.

Ryan's stepmother is fostering a sense of INDUSTRY in Ryan.

Explanation:

Industry vs. inferiority is a stage that begins when a child is five to twelve years. This is a stage when a child begins to read and write , to do mathematical sums and learn independence.

At this stage they need a lot of support from their parents and teachers which will build their self esteem.

Approval at this stage is very crucial to them , so when they do something and they receive recognition and approval , they will feel confident in their achievements. If these newly acquired skills are encouraged the child will feel industrious (competent)

If they feel discouraged they are likely to feel a sense of inferiority.

Ryan's Stepmom is encouraging him by recognising his work in a way that shows she is actual proud of what he has done such that she displays it for everyone to see, as result this will make him feel industrious (competent).