Oral stage

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Breastfeeding a newborn baby child, Moscow, Russia

Oral stage is the first of the five stages of psychosexual development proposed by Sigmund Freud, which occurs from birth to approximately 18 months of age. According to Freud, the oral stage is centered on the infant's pleasure in feeding and the stimulation of their mouth, lips, and tongue. During this stage, the infant's primary interaction with the world is through the mouth, leading to a strong dependence on the primary caregiver, typically the mother, for sustenance and comfort.

Developmental Focus

During the oral stage, the infant's main developmental focus is on oral activities such as sucking, biting, and chewing. These actions are not only crucial for feeding but also serve as a source of pleasure and comfort for the infant. Freud suggested that the way these needs are met by the caregiver can significantly influence the individual's personality and behavior in later life.

Oral Fixation

Freud believed that conflicts or frustrations experienced during the oral stage could lead to an oral fixation in later life. This fixation may manifest as a preoccupation with oral activities such as eating, drinking, smoking, or nail-biting. Individuals with an oral fixation may also exhibit traits such as dependency, passivity, and a tendency towards gullibility.

Sub-Stages

Freud divided the oral stage into two sub-stages:

1. The oral-sucking phase, which is characterized by the infant's pleasure in sucking activities, often associated with breastfeeding.
2. The oral-biting phase, which begins with the introduction of teething and is characterized by the infant's pleasure in biting and chewing.

Criticism and Legacy

While Freud's theory of psychosexual development has been influential in the fields of psychology, psychotherapy, and psychoanalysis, it has also faced criticism. Critics argue that Freud's theories are overly focused on sexuality and may not be applicable to all cultures or individuals. Additionally, the lack of empirical evidence supporting Freud's developmental stages has led to skepticism regarding their validity.

Despite these criticisms, Freud's concept of the oral stage has contributed to a broader understanding of early childhood development and the importance of the caregiver-child relationship. It has also influenced subsequent theories of personality and development.

See Also

• Psychosexual development
• Sigmund Freud
• Oral fixation
• Teething