Freud's Psychosexual Theory of Development

Overview

• Concept: Freud's theory suggests that psychological development in childhood occurs in fixed stages, termed psychosexual stages.
• Main Idea: Life revolves around tension and pleasure; tension buildup, termed fixation, can lead to conflicts.
• Libido: A natural energy source driving the mind's mechanisms; fixation of libido at any stage can affect adulthood.
• Importance of Early Years: First five years are crucial for adult personality formation.

Stages of Development

Mnemonic

• Mnemonic for stages: "Old Age Parrots Love Grapes"
  • Oral, Anal, Phallic, Latent, Genital

1. Oral Stage (0-1 years)

• Libido Focus: Mouth
• Activities: Rooting, sucking reflex; oral stimulation via tasting and sucking.
• Development: Feeding; develops trust and comfort.
• Fixation Outcome: Dependency or aggression issues, smoking, nail-biting.

2. Anal Stage (1-3 years)

• Libido Focus: Anus
• Activities: Toilet training, controlling bowel and bladder.
• Development: Sense of control, accomplishment, and independence.
• Fixation Outcome: Problems with orderliness and messiness.

3. Phallic Stage (3-6 years)

• Libido Focus: Genitals
• Activities: Discovering male and female differences.
• Complexes:
  • Oedipus Complex: Boys view fathers as rivals for mother's affection.
  • Electra Complex: Girls view mothers as rivals for father's affection.
• Development: Identification with same-sex parent.
• Fixation Outcome: Sexual dysfunction.

4. Latent Period (6-12 years)

• Libido Focus: None
• Activities: Intellectual pursuits, social interactions.
• Development: Social and communication skills, new skills.
• Fixation Outcome: None.

5. Genital Stage (12+ years)

• Libido Focus: Genitals
• Activities: Developing strong sexual interests.
• Development: Sexual maturity, interest in welfare of others.
• Goal: Establish balance between life areas.
• Fixation Outcome: None, if earlier stages are resolved successfully.

Conclusion

• Successful completion of all stages leads to a well-balanced, warm, and caring individual.
• Freud's theory emphasizes the importance of early childhood experiences in shaping adult personality.