Phallic Phase: age, characteristics and functioning

George Alvarez 18-10-2023
George Alvarez

The stages of development in human beings contribute directly to their formation in adulthood. It is necessary to take proper care of each one of them, so that no harm will come to them later. From here on we will talk about the phallic phase according to Freud and some more important characteristics about this period of life.

The Phallic Phase in Psychoanalysis

Taking place between the ages of 4 and 6, the phallic phase is about the construction of the formation of recognition This is the third phase in the libidinal evolution and is conditioned by attention to the child's phallus.

From this point on, the child begins to pay more attention to its own and its parents' sexual organs, and the beginning of the child's sexualization and its affection for itself and the outside world.

Even at such a young age the child becomes capable of feeling pleasure in the genitals, the penis or the clitoris. Importantly, their biological development is very close to being completed. However, there is a very sensitive psychic immaturity.

The propulsion of affectivity

In the phallic phase, the genital organs begin to control the impulses of the mouth and anus, which before were completely partial. The limbic system, responsible for emotional responses, has its action softened and the fear of loss begins in the psychic. According to Psychoanalysis is the most important phase in relation to our affectivity and the nurturing of good attachment .

There is a very important passage here, because the child is becoming humanized, and begins to understand the importance of being part of the family and how this contributes to their growth. This is why many want to see pictures of them younger, or even of the pregnant mother, to know that they really belong to the nucleus.

It is an important moment for him to understand that he is part of the triangulation between parents and children. However, the child also needs to understand that he is not the boss of his parents and that there is a family hierarchy.

"Your king sent word..."

A striking fact in the phallic phase is the child's desire to establish his or her own orders in the environment. There is an inclination to impose yourself, so that others must satisfy your personal tastes The child will not admit to being contradicted, expressing this very well on his face, which many understand to be a tantrum.

For example, wanting her parents to leave the room so she can control what she watches. Wanting to watch cartoons or her favorite programs instead of soap operas or TV news. And getting irritated when her bedtime comes while her parents are still awake watching TV.

Note that the child's narcissistic personality is most evident where the desire to be equal to the parents springs up. There is a search to be recognized in his desire to belong to the family since affection needs a response That is why it is also more obedient, and if it has developed well the previous phases, it is good to be reminded of them.

Income

It is important to emphasize the value that the phallic phase has towards the child's development. More matured, she can healthily understand some concepts and skills pertinent to her path. In this, parents can introduce themes that will help in her social, emotional and intellectual construction, such as:

Where Babies Come From

The subject is a certain taboo among parents because they fear that they will negatively influence the child or feel uncomfortable about it. It turns out that it is possible to be didactic about it by telling the truth in a way that the child can understand. This can help create a bond of trust that allows for honest conversations further down the line .

See_also: Everybody is a little bit of a madman and a doctor

Sincerity

As discussed above, the internship is an excellent way to lay the foundations for a more sincere attitude. It is not about creating someone who is rude, but who learns to use the truth and believe in life.

Arts

This is an excellent time to stimulate artistic creation in little ones. This can come with drawings, music, dance, or any other skill she may enjoy. Since she likes to be the center of attention, this contributes to her growth and sense of self-worth.

Read Also: Freud's Stages of Sexuality

The Well-Settled Phallic Phase

The great fruits harvested in the phallic phase, when well developed, They know they are valued by their parents or caregivers and understand that they have a place there. She also feels accepted because of the attention and care she receives from that same group.

Not to mention her education in which she recognizes her own intellectual and emotional potential. This ends up contributing directly to the construction of her vanity in which she feels pleasure in taking care of herself. Although she is prouder, she is able to understand where she has gone wrong and to accept and accept it calmly.

I want information to enroll in the Psychoanalysis Course .

The world has rules, and from a young age he learns what they are and how to follow them. This gives her insight into the importance of these boundaries and what they can do for everyone .

The unresolved phallic phase

When the stages of psychosexual development are ineffectively constructed the child is extremely damaged. This is because his growth can be flawed and his adulthood compromised in many ways. For example:

Insecurity

When this stage is not quite completed the adult form of the child seeks to please others with worrying frequency. It is a means of receiving attention and securing some recognition that it did not receive during childhood.

Feeling of inferiority

Your compromised self-esteem makes you feel inferior to other people, and your quest for recognition shows itself more strongly in order to mask this vulnerability and secure acceptance and attention.

See_also: Freud's biography: life, trajectory and contributions

Shyness

Being introverted is a common personality trait, but in exaggeration it completely compromises your external interaction. Everything ends up looking bigger than it is your fragile perception fears making mistakes that could expose you In this, he withdraws from everyone, avoids crowds or even drawing any kind of attention to himself.

The Excesses

At any stage of psychosexual development there must be balances Although it is difficult to determine a middle ground, it is possible to guide the little ones in their upbringing. It is difficult, but as parents and caregivers we must understand what best meets the needs of the child.

For example, care must be taken with excesses, so that the child does not become a selfish one. In this she may demand that she receive a lot of attention from everyone and only for herself. Even if she is an only child, this kind of complete and unbridled surrender is not recommended by educators.

However, when this is established, in the end, it is a smooth passage. Both for its duration, and also for the lessons and independence delivered.

Final considerations about the phallic phase

The development of children in the phallic phase contributes directly to their formation towards adulthood Here you have the necessary foundations to shape your character and define important pillars for your contact with yourself and the world.

Of course, all phases are of utmost importance, but in this specific one we are able to implement important pieces of the personality. When done properly, we have someone secure, proactive, and aware of the ability to transform the world around us.

In order to better understand and manage this moment, enroll in our online course on Clinical Psychoanalysis. By going beyond developing your self-knowledge, you will acquire the necessary tools to shape your posture and elevate yourself in any aspect. For children, the application of Psychoanalytical knowledge in the phallic phase contributes directly to the development of their potential .

I want information to enroll in the Psychoanalysis Course .

George Alvarez

George Alvarez is a renowned psychoanalyst who has been practicing for over 20 years and is highly regarded in the field. He is a sought-after speaker and has conducted numerous workshops and training programs on psychoanalysis for professionals in the mental health industry. George is also an accomplished writer and has authored several books on psychoanalysis that have received critical acclaim. George Alvarez is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and expertise with others and has created a popular blog on Online Training Course in Psychoanalysis that is widely followed by mental health professionals and students around the world. His blog provides a comprehensive training course that covers all aspects of psychoanalysis, from theory to practical applications. George is passionate about helping others and is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of his clients and students.