AAMC FL Practice Exam

Which of the following stages is characterized by the focus on masturbation according to Freud's Psychosexual Stages?

1. Latent Stage

2. Phallic Stage

3. Oral Stage

4. Genital Stage

The correct answer is: Phallic Stage

The Phallic Stage, which occurs between the ages of approximately three to six years, is characterized by a child's exploration of their own body and sexuality, leading to an increased focus on masturbation. During this stage, children become more aware of their bodies and the differences between genders. Freud believed that this stage is crucial as it is a period when children develop a sense of identity and begin to learn about the values and norms associated with gender roles. The other stages have different emphases: the Oral Stage revolves around the infant's pleasure centers on the mouth (e.g., sucking and biting), the Latent Stage is marked by a focus on social skills and academic pursuits rather than sexual interests, and the Genital Stage, which begins in adolescence, involves the maturation of sexual interests and relationships beyond the self to others. Each stage builds on the previous one, but the distinct focus of the Phallic Stage is the exploration and enjoyment of one's own body, especially in relation to the emerging understanding of sexuality.