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

During the Oral Stage, which occurs from birth to about 18 months, a child's primary source of interaction with the world is through the mouth. This is the stage where feeding, sucking, and biting are essential for development. If a child’s oral needs are not adequately met during this critical period, they may develop various behaviors associated with oral fixation later in life.

Overeating or smoking are common manifestations of such oral fixations. These behaviors can be seen as attempts to fulfill unmet oral needs or to compensate for a lack of nourishment and security experienced in infancy. For instance, mouth-oriented behaviors like overeating can reflect a pursuit of comfort or satisfaction that was not achieved during the Oral Stage. Similarly, smoking can also provide a similar oral gratification, thereby acting as a substitute for the nurturing that was absent.

In contrast, heightened academic performance, increased social interactions, and improved creativity do not typically link to unmet oral needs. These latter behaviors may develop due to different factors unrelated to oral fixation, such as environmental stimulation, educational opportunities, or personal motivation. The behavior of overeating or smoking stands out as a directly relevant outcome of an unresolved and unmet oral stage, making it the most appropriate response to the question.