Chapter 11: Problem 26

Describe the personality of someone who is fixated at the anal stage.

Short Answer

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A person who is fixated at the anal stage, according to Freud, can exhibit traits of being extremely orderly and stubborn with a high need for control (anal-retentive), or may be quite disorganized and lack self-discipline (anal-expulsive)

Step by step solution

Understanding Freud's Theory

The exercise is based on Freud's psychosexual stages of development which theorizes that individuals go through different stages throughout their childhood, where the libido focuses on different erogenous zones. The anal stage, which occurs between the ages of 18 months and three years, is the period when children are toilet training. If a child had issues or conflicts during this stage, Freud suggested they may develop an 'anal fixation', leading them to exhibit certain character traits in adulthood.

Explaining Anal Character Traits

Freud identified two types of personalities resulting from how a child moves through the anal stage of development. Anal-retentive personality arises from too strict potty training. These individuals tend to be orderly, stubborn, and obsessed with control and tidiness. Anal-expulsive personality is the result of lenient potty training. They could be disorganized, lack self-discipline, and may even engage in defiant behavior.

Applying the Theory

To describe the personality of someone who is fixated at the anal stage, you could note the following: They may have a particular focus on orderliness and control. They may be quite strict in their behaviors and routines, and have an intense dislike to chaos or disruption. Alternatively, if they are at the other end of the anal spectrum, they may be quite messy, disorganized, and struggle to adhere to routine or structure.

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Describe the personality of someone who is fixated at the anal stage.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Freud's Theory

Explaining Anal Character Traits

Applying the Theory

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