Anal retentive

Anal retentive (often abbreviated as anal) is a term used in psychology to describe a person who pays such attention to detail that it becomes an obsession and may be an obstacle to completing a task. The term derives from Freudian psychoanalysis.

Origin

The term was coined by Sigmund Freud, based on his theory of psychosexual development. According to Freud, the anal stage is the period of human development occurring at about one to three years of age. Around this age, the child begins to toilet train, which brings about the child's fascination in the erogenous zone of the anus.

Characteristics

People who are characterized as being anal retentive (anal) are often perfectionists. They may have a constant need to clean, be punctual, and are often over-organized. They may be seen as meticulous, down to the smallest detail, and very neat. They may have a need for order and symmetry, and have difficulty throwing things away (hoarding). These characteristics are often associated with OCD.

In popular culture

The term "anal retentive" has entered the popular lexicon, often used humorously to describe someone who is excessively detailed and meticulous.

See also

• Freudian psychoanalysis
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Perfectionism