Which of the following describes the oral psychosexual stage of development?

Which of the following describes the oral psychosexual stage of development?

• A. Beginning at birth, centered on the mouth
• B. Focused on the anus, ages 2-3
• C. Involves the genitals, ages 4-5
• D. Occurs during puberty, again active

Answer: (A)

The oral psychosexual stage of development occurs from birth to about 18 months of age and is centered on the mouth. During this stage, infants derive pleasure primarily through oral activities such as sucking, biting, and swallowing. This period is crucial in shaping a person's interaction with the world as the mouth is a primary source of gratification. Successfully navigating this stage can lead to the development of trust and comfort, while fixation or challenges may contribute to issues in later stages of personality development, such as dependence or excessive self-indulgence. Understanding this stage is essential in the study of psychosexual development because it lays the groundwork for future stages and influences overall personality.

The oral psychosexual stage of development occurs from birth to about 18 months of age and is centered on the mouth. During this stage, infants derive pleasure primarily through oral activities such as sucking, biting, and swallowing. This period is crucial in shaping a person's interaction with the world as the mouth is a primary source of gratification.

Successfully navigating this stage can lead to the development of trust and comfort, while fixation or challenges may contribute to issues in later stages of personality development, such as dependence or excessive self-indulgence. Understanding this stage is essential in the study of psychosexual development because it lays the groundwork for future stages and influences overall personality.