In Freud's theory, the oral stage occurs from birth to approximately what age?

In Freud's theory of psychosexual development, the oral stage occurs from birth to roughly one year of age. During this stage, an infant's primary interaction with the world is through the mouth, as this is critical for feeding and exploring their environment. The focus is on oral pleasures and activities, such as sucking and biting, which are essential for their physical and emotional development.

Freud posited that experiences during this stage could have lasting effects on personality. If an infant's needs are either overly gratified or frustrated, it may lead to fixation later in life, potentially manifesting in behaviors associated with oral traits, such as smoking or overeating.

Understanding the oral stage is vital in grasping Freud's broader theory of personality development and how early experiences can shape psychological outcomes. This foundational knowledge also helps in appreciating the subsequent stages outlined by Freud, as each builds on the issues and resolutions of earlier stages.