Freud’s Psychosexual Theory

Question 1

Oral (0-1)

Answer 1

During the oral stage, the infant’s primary source of interaction occurs through the mouth, so the rooting and sucking reflex is especially important. The mouth is vital for eating, and the infant derives pleasure from oral stimulation through gratifying activities such as tasting and sucking. The primary conflict at this stage is the weaning process–the child must become less dependent upon caretakers. If fixation occurs at this stage, Freud believed the individual would have issues with dependency or aggression.

Question 2

Anal (1-3)

Answer 2

Pleasure is derived from bowel and bladder control, with the focus on toilet training and the pleasure/frustration associated with it. The major conflict at this stage is toilet training—the child has to learn to control their bodily needs. Developing this control leads to a sense of accomplishment and independence.

According to Freud, success at this stage depends on how parents ​approach toilet training. Parents who praise and reward children for using the toilet at the appropriate time encourage positive outcomes and help children feel capable and productive. Parents who react strict to accidents can have negative outcomes in the future.

Question 3

Phallic (3-6)

Answer 3

The genitals become the main source of pleasure, and children begin to explore their bodies and gender differences. Behavior like masturbation emerges to self soothe. The ID subsides and Superego forms.Freud also believed that boys begin to view their fathers as a rival for the mother’s affection. The Oedipus complex describes these feelings of wanting to possess the mother and the desire to replace the father. However, the child also fears that he will be punished by the father for these feelings, a fear Freud termed castration anxiety.The term Electra complex has been used to describe a similar set of feelings experienced by young girls. Freud, however, believed that girls instead experience penis envy.

Question 4

Latency (6-11/12 - Puberty)

Answer 4

Sexual interest and feelings are repressed as children focus on social and intellectual development. Children develop social skills, values, and relationships with peers and adults outside of the family. The stage begins around the time that children enter school and become more concerned with peer relationships, hobbies, and other interests.

Question 5

Gential (12 +)

Answer 5

Sexual feelings resurface, and individuals develop mature sexual interests and relationships.The onset of puberty causes the libido to become active once again. During the final stage of psychosexual development, the individual develops a strong sexual interest in the opposite sex. Freud believed that the ego and superego were fully formed and functioning at this point.