A second-grade teacher has been hired for a classroom where 12 of 23 students are "at-risk" students. The principal tells the teacher that "These children are low academic achievers and since kindergarten they have exhibited low self-esteem." The principal's comment is likely based on his awareness that children at this age develop a sense of inferiority if they -

A. Are unable to form close relationships with peers of the opposite sex
B. Gain a considerable degree of autonomy in a relatively short period of time
C. Fail to experience satisfaction or success with the completion of tasks they are assigned
D. Are unable to develop a sense of identity