Theory Of Psychosexual Development By Freud
Freud’s theory of psychosexual development explains personality formation through five childhood stages, each centered on an erogenous zone. Unresolved conflicts at any stage can cause “fixations” that influence adult behavior.
Five Stages of Psychosexual Development -
1. Oral Stage (0–1 year)
- Pleasure center: Mouth (sucking, biting)
- Infant gains satisfaction through feeding.
- Fixation may lead to habits like smoking, nail-biting, overeating.
2. Anal Stage (1–3 years)
- Pleasure center: Anus (toilet training)
- Focus on controlling bowel movements.
- Strict or lenient training may lead to:
– Anal-retentive (overly neat, strict)
– Anal-expulsive (messy, careless)
3. Phallic Stage (3–6 years)
- Pleasure center: Genitals
- Child becomes aware of gender differences.
- Experiences:
– Oedipus complex (boys)
– Electra complex (girls) - Identification with same-sex parent develops.
4. Latency Stage (6–puberty)
- Sexual urges become inactive.
- Focus shifts to school, friendships, and skills.
- Social and intellectual development increases.
5. Genital Stage (puberty onward)
- Pleasure center: Genitals (mature sexuality)
- Development of healthy adult relationships.
- Balance of earlier stages leads to a well-adjusted personality.