Freud’s theory of psychosexual development claims that as we grow up, we pass through five critical phases. Our sex drive, which Freud called the Libido, focuses on a different erogenous zone at each phase. The phases are called Oral, Anal, Phallic, Latency, and Genital. If our experience during any of these phases was traumatic, we might develop fixations later in life such as neurosis, dependencies, addictions, or depression.
The Oral Phase (Age 0-1)
In the first year of our lives, we discover the world through our oral senses. Our main pleasure comes from sucking our mother’s breast or a bottle. The conflict that occurs now is the weaning from our primary caregiver. For example:
- Hans is weaned off his mother’s breast without trauma and becomes a healthy, independent adult.
- Ernst’s mother stops feeding him within four months, which is too early, leading him to develop an oral fixation and constantly chew gum.
- Ida is often left alone crying when hungry, resulting in a lifelong search for oral stimulation and developing a manipulative, addictive personality.
The Anal Phase (Age 1-3)
The primary focus of our Libido at this age is the control of the bladder and bowel movements. We have to learn how to use the potty. For example:
- Hans’s parents praise his attempts to use the toilet and encourage him to learn at his own pace, leading to a balanced relationship with authority.
- Ernst’s parents force potty training too early and punish mistakes, leading to an anal-retentive personality characterized by over-control and stinginess.
- Ida’s parents neglect potty training, resulting in an anal-expulsive personality that is messy, disorganized, and rebellious.
The Phallic Phase (Age 3-6)
Our Libido turns to the genitals as we discover gender differences. The boy’s conflict during this phase is the Oedipus Complex, while girls experience Penis Envy. For example:
- Hans resolves his conflict by identifying strongly with his present father, learning to respect both genders.
- Ernst, with an absent father, fails to develop a strong sense of manhood, remains unsure about his sexuality, and exhibits aggression towards women.
- Ida maintains her penis envy, causing an inferiority complex towards men.
The Latent Phase (Age 7-13)
In this phase, our Libido is suppressed, and our sexual energy is sublimated into developing life skills. Our Superego strengthens, and we identify with social values and same-sex heroes. For example:
- Hans follows many hobbies.
- Ernst loves learning at school.
- Ida makes lots of new girlfriends. There is no significant conflict, and the skills developed during latency benefit all three throughout their lives.
The Genital Phase (Puberty to Death)
Our Libido becomes active again, and we develop an interest in sexual partners. For example:
- Hans, who experienced a childhood without much trauma, builds a strong Ego, maintains a disciplined work life, a loving relationship, and a fulfilled sex life.
- Ernst’s weaker Ego leads him to suppress his desires, resulting in perversions.
- Ida, with a weak Ego and Superego, prioritizes her sexual needs over social norms, leading to egoistic behavior without guilt.
Understanding Freud’s Theory in Context
Freud’s famous work on the unconscious is essential to understand his theory. He claimed that our mind operates in three spheres:
- The Unconscious level operates the Id.
- The Preconscious level operates the Superego.
- The Conscious and Preconscious levels operate our Ego.
Freud believed that young children are driven by the Id and demand immediate satisfaction. By around age seven, we develop a Superego, aiming to become moral citizens and please others. The Ego forms in adolescence to balance these forces.
Freud’s work suggested that our unconscious stores early childhood memories and experiences, which influence our daily behavior. Revealing traumatic memories and desires through conversation can free us from neuroses, leading to a healthier life. Freud emphasized the importance of getting in accord with our complexes rather than striving to eliminate them, as they direct our conduct in the world.