According to Freud, adults fixated in which stage could feel constantly out of control?

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Prepare for your FLVS Psychology 1 Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Get exam ready now!

Freud's theory of psychosexual development posits that the anal stage, which occurs roughly between the ages of 18 months and 3 years, focuses on the control and release of bodily waste. In this stage, children experience conflicts around toilet training and learn about control, independence, and boundaries. If a child becomes fixated in this stage due to being overly strict or lenient during potty training, they might carry those characteristics into adulthood.

Adults who are fixated at the anal stage may struggle with issues of control in their lives, leading to feelings of chaos or a lack of structure. They might exhibit traits such as being overly meticulous or, conversely, being messily disorganized. This conflict between control and carelessness can manifest as anxiety about orderliness or a feeling of being unable to manage their lives effectively. Therefore, a fixation in the anal stage can lead to a sense of being "out of control," aligning directly with the characteristics associated with this developmental phase.

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