Human Growth and Development

Defense Mechanisms (continued)

Defense Mechanism

Definition

Example

The refusal to confess that something upsetting exists

Denial

A parent refuses to believe their child is a bully when told. A person who feels hostile toward a coworker may accuse the coworker of being hostile, unconsciously shifting their own aggression onto the other person to avoid acknowledging it.

Projection

When a person unconsciously attributes their own thoughts or feelings to someone else.

Freud's Psychosexual Development Theory Freud's Psychosexual Theory suggests personality is developed during childhood and influenced by early experiences. He believed that behavior is driven by psychosexual energy ( libido ), which is controlled by the id's pleasure principle - the need for immediate satisfaction. He outlined five stages, each focused on different erogenous zones, where successful resolution is key to healthy development.

Stage

Focus

Characteristics

Possible Fixations

Oral Stage Birth–1 year

Mouth (sucking, biting)

Pleasure is focused on oral activities (e.g., feeding). Pleasure is focused on controlling bowel movements. Children start having awareness of their bodies and differences. The focus switches to learning, social interactions and hobbies. Sexual energy is directed towards mature relationships.

Dependency, smoking, overeating, nail-biting, or excessive talking.

Anal Stage 1–3 years

Anus ​ (toilet training)

Overly orderly (anal) or disorganized, stubbornness.

Phallic Stage 3–6 years

Genitals ​ (self- discovery)

Oedipus/Electra complex, vanity, recklessness or relationship difficulties. Social withdrawal, lack of confidence or excessive focus on work/achievement. Difficulty with intimacy, immature relationships, promiscuity or fear of sexuality.

Latency Stage 6–11 years

Sexual feelings are dormant

Genital Stage 12 years and up

Genitals (mature sexual relationships)

Freud believed resolving childhood conflicts was key to healthy development. Unresolved issues could affect adult behavior .

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