In Freud's psychosexual development, during which stage is sexuality latent or dormant?

• A. Oral
• B. Anal
• C. Phallic
• D. Latent

Answer: (D)

In Freud’s theory, the sexuality is dormant during the latency period. This phase occurs roughly from early elementary ages up to puberty, after the earlier stages and before adolescence. During latency, psychosexual energy is repressed and redirected into other activities—school, friendships, hobbies, and skill development—so sexual impulses aren’t expressed outwardly. The energy then reemerges in the genital stage at puberty, when sexual interest returns and is directed toward forming intimate relationships. The earlier stages—oral, anal, and phallic—involve active expressions of pleasure tied to different body zones or complex family dynamics, which is why latency stands out as the dormant period.