anal-retentive phase

in the classical psychoanalytic theory of Sigmund Freud, a phase of the anal stage in which pleasure is obtained by retaining feces, thereby defying the parent, and in which the sadistic instinct is linked to possession and control of the object. Fixation at this phase results in an adult anal personality. See also anal-sadistic phase. Compare anal-expulsive phase.

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

December 19th 2024

hunger center

see feeding center.