Freud’s Psychosexual Theory Review

These flashcards cover the key concepts and details from Freud's Psychosexual Theory, including the stages, conflicts, and signs of fixation.

What happens when a stage in Freud's Psychosexual Theory is not resolved?

The individual is said to be fixated, meaning energy is needed to balance personality.

What is the focus of libido during the Oral Stage of Freud's Psychosexual Theory?

Oral gratification, including sucking on the breast or bottle and placing things in the mouth.

What conflict occurs during the Oral Stage?

A child being weaned off the mother’s breast.

What are some signs of fixation from the Oral Stage in adult personality?

Overeating, pessimism, smoking, envy, gullibility, and suspicion.

What is the key focus of the Anal Stage?

Bowel pleasure related to the expulsion or retention of feces.

What conflict occurs during the Anal Stage?

Potty training.

What are the adult characteristics of someone fixated at the Anal Stage?

Anal-expulsive: messy and in jobs like construction; Anal-retentive: stubborn and overly tidy.

What is the focus of libido during the Phallic Stage?

Awareness of sexual organs and a love-hate relationship with the same-sex parent.

What is significant about the Phallic Stage in Freud’s model?

It is the most important stage.

What conflicts are associated with the Phallic Stage?

The Oedipus and Electra complexes.

What signs of fixation might affect adult personality during the Phallic Stage?

Recklessness or fear of love, narcissism, being self-assured or selfish, and poor relationships with the opposite sex.

What occurs during the Latency Stage?

The sexual drive lays dormant and libidal energy is directed towards asexual pursuits like school and same-sex friendships.

What is a sign of fixation in the Latency Stage?

A lack of close friends.

What characterizes the Genital Stage?

Development of interest in dating and marriage during adolescence.

What are signs of fixation in the Genital Stage?

Guilt about sexuality, feelings of inadequacy, poor sexual relationships, and anxiety regarding the opposite sex.

What causes fixation at a particular stage according to Freud?

Frustration when needs are not met or overindulgence when needs are overly met.

What impact does fixation at a particular stage have on adult personality?

The stage will dominate the individual’s adult personality.