101. Freud’s Psychoanalytic Theory & Development

Sigmund Freud (1856–1939)

Austrian neurologist and founder of Psychoanalysis.

Sigmund Freud (1856–1939)

• Developed key theories on the unconscious, psychological conflict, personality, dreams, and psychotherapy.

Erogenous Zones

Specific pleasure areas tied to each stage of development.

Fixation

Unresolved conflicts during any stage can lead to fixation and shape later adult personality patterns.

Stages of Psychosexual Development

Oral Stage

Anal Stage

Phallic(Oedipal) Stage

Latency Stage

Genital Stage

Oral Stage(Birth to 1 year)

The mouth (feeding, sucking, biting) is the primary source of pleasure. Difficulties or overindulgence can lead to oral fixation.

Anal Stage(1 to 3 years)

Focuses on the anal region (retention & expulsion). Linked to toilet training and developing self-control.

Phallic (Oedipal) Stage(3-6 years)

Awareness of and pleasure associated with genitals. Introduces the Oedipus Complex conflict (note: Freud primarily focused on male development in his accounts).

Latency Stage(6years to puberty)

Sexual impulses are relatively inactive or "latent". Energy is directed toward learning, friendships, play, and social skills.

Genital Stage(Puberty Onward)

Re-emergence of mature genital sexuality and the capacity for adult sexual relationships.

Structural Model of Personality (Psyche)

ID

EGO

SUPEREGO

Id

Pleasure Principle

Present from birth; the original reservoir of instinctual drives. Demands immediate gratification ("wants it now and fast").

Ego

Reality Principle

Develops through interaction with reality. Dynamic system for regulation, planning, and practical decision-making between Id, Superego, and the world.

Superego

Morality & Responsibility

Internalized social standards, values, prohibitions, and ideals. Consists of the conscience and ego ideal.

Topographical Model (Three Levels of Mind)

Conscious Level

Preconscious Level

Unconscious Level

Conscious Level

Current thoughts and perceptions.

Preconscious Level

• Retrievable memories and stored knowledge.

Unconscious Level

• Reservoir of violent motives, fears, immoral urges, selfish needs, unacceptable sexual desires, and irrational wishes.