Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPA) Practice Exam 2026 - Free AEPA Practice Questions and Study Guide

In Freud's psychosexual theory, the stage associated with toddlerhood is the anal stage. This stage typically occurs roughly between the ages of 1 and 3 years. During this period, a child's focus of pleasure and conflict centers around bowel and bladder control, which is a significant aspect of developing a sense of independence and responsibility.

At this stage, children learn to control their bodily functions, which Freud considered a crucial period for the development of personality traits such as competence, organization, and self-control. Success in this stage can lead to a sense of achievement and confidence, whereas struggles over toilet training can lead to potential challenges later in life related to control and obedience. Understanding this stage is vital for grasping Freud's overall theory of personality development, as it lays the foundation for issues of autonomy and discipline that affect future behavior.