anal-sadistic phase

in the classical psychoanalytic theory of Sigmund Freud, a phase of the anal stage in which the child manifests aggressive and destructive tendencies. One expression of these tendencies is withholding the feces in defiance of parental urging. See anal-aggressive personality. See also anal-expulsive phase; anal-retentive phase.

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Psychology term of the day

December 19th 2024

hunger center

see feeding center.