During which stage of psychosexual development do children primarily seek gratification from genitals?

Prepare for the EPPP Clinical Psychology Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with explanations and hints. Master the material to ensure you perform your best on test day!

The correct answer is the Phallic Stage. In Freud's theory of psychosexual development, the Phallic Stage occurs from approximately ages three to six years. During this period, children become aware of their bodies and begin to explore the differences between genders. This stage is particularly characterized by the child's interest in and focus on genitalia, which Freud believed is a central source of pleasure at this age.

Children may develop a sense of sexuality and become aware of the concepts of gender roles and identity, which are deeply connected to their understanding of the differences between males and females. This stage is also critical in terms of the development of the Oedipus and Electra complexes, where children feel unconscious desires for the opposite-sex parent and rivalry with the same-sex parent, further emphasizing the significance of genital gratification.

In contrast, the Anal Stage, which precedes the Phallic Stage, focuses on the gratification derived from controlling bladder and bowel movements, with a primary emphasis on issues of control and cleanliness. The Latency Stage, following the Phallic Stage, is characterized by a period of social and intellectual development, where sexual feelings are largely repressed. Lastly, the Genital Stage, which occurs during adolescence and continues into adulthood, signifies the

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