What happens if a child's needs during the Oral Stage are not met appropriately?

When a child's needs during the Oral Stage are not met appropriately, they may experience oral fixation. This stage, according to psychoanalytic theory proposed by Sigmund Freud, occurs from birth to about 18 months and centers around an infant's pleasure centers on the mouth, which includes activities like sucking and biting.

If caregivers do not provide adequate oral stimulation or comfort, the child may develop a fixation that manifests later in life as an excessive need for oral gratification, such as smoking, overeating, or nail-biting. This fixation can stem from issues such as weaning too early or not providing enough comfort through oral activities.

Individuals with oral fixation may struggle with dependency or aggression, as their unresolved needs during this critical developmental period can influence their behaviors and interact with their emotional responses in adulthood. Thus, failing to meet a child's needs during the Oral Stage may have significant implications on their later development, making the identification of this issue crucial for early childhood educators and caregivers.