Which stage is characterized by dormancy of sexual feelings?

Which stage is characterized by dormancy of sexual feelings?

• A. Genital
• B. Anal
• C. Latency
• D. Oral

Answer: (C)

Latency is the period in Freud's psychosexual theory where sexual feelings are dormant. It runs roughly from ages six to puberty, and energy is redirected into school, friendships, hobbies, and skill development rather than sexual activity. This dormancy helps the child focus on learning and social growth, especially forming same‑sex friendships, before the genital stage of adolescence brings a reawakening of sexual interests and relationships. The earlier stages—oral and anal—center on early mouth-related and bowel/bladder control activities, while the genital stage marks the return of mature sexual interest.

Latency is the period in Freud's psychosexual theory where sexual feelings are dormant. It runs roughly from ages six to puberty, and energy is redirected into school, friendships, hobbies, and skill development rather than sexual activity. This dormancy helps the child focus on learning and social growth, especially forming same‑sex friendships, before the genital stage of adolescence brings a reawakening of sexual interests and relationships. The earlier stages—oral and anal—center on early mouth-related and bowel/bladder control activities, while the genital stage marks the return of mature sexual interest.