Question

During this phase, the infant still cannot speak and experiences pleasure through the mouth, such as through sucking and biting. Their first autoerotic experience is thumb sucking, a defense against anxiety that satisfies their sexual but not their nutritional needs.

Answer 1

During this phase, the infant is in the oral stage of psychosexual development, according to Sigmund Freud's theory. Pleasure is derived through the mouth, primarily through activities like sucking and biting. The first autoerotic experience in this stage is thumb sucking, serving as a defense mechanism against anxiety and fulfilling sexual rather than nutritional needs.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this developmental phase, as per Freudian theory, infants are in the oral stage, typically spanning from birth to around 18 months. Freud proposed that during this stage, pleasure is centered around the mouth, and the infant engages in activities like sucking and biting to derive satisfaction. The term "autoerotic" refers to a self-directed pleasure, and in this context, it manifests through actions like thumb sucking.

This behavior not only provides sensual pleasure but also serves as a coping mechanism to alleviate anxiety, showcasing the intricate interplay between psychological and physical needs.Freud's psychosexual stages emphasize the significance of early childhood experiences in shaping an individual's personality. The oral stage sets the foundation for subsequent stages, and the autoerotic experiences during this time contribute to the development of coping strategies.

Thumb sucking, as a form of self-soothing, highlights the infant's attempt to manage anxiety in a world where they are still adapting and developing. Understanding these early stages is essential for comprehending the complex interconnections between psychological development and behavior throughout one's life.