Psychosexual Stages

Definition

These are the five stages of child development theorized by Sigmund Freud, where pleasure-seeking energies focus on different erogenous zones. The stages include oral, anal, phallic, latency, and genital.

Theoretical Perspectives

Psychosexual stages are a key concept in Freudian psychology, reflecting the psychoanalytic perspective that early childhood experiences shape personality development and behavior through a series of stages centered on erogenous zones.

Study And Research Findings

Sigmund Freud's own writings and case studies form the primary source for understanding psychosexual stages. Subsequent research in developmental psychology has critiqued and expanded upon his ideas, often questioning their generalizability and empirical support.

Related terms

Oral Stage:

This is the first stage in Freud's psychosexual development theory occurring from birth to 1 year old. Here, pleasure centers on the mouth through activities such as sucking and biting.

Anal Stage:

The second stage of Freud's theory occurring from ages 1-3 years old. Pleasure focuses on bowel and bladder elimination; coping with demands for control.

Phallic Stage:

The third stage of Freud's theory occurring from ages 3-6 years old. Pleasure zone is the genitals; coping with incestuous sexual feelings.