The Oedipus complex, the psychosexual conflict that occurs at the phallic stage of development, is characterized by a three- to five-year-old boy who
A)represses his need for genital self-stimulation.
B)loves his mother but has feelings of anger and envy toward his father.
C)loves his father but has feelings of anger and envy toward his mother.
D)fantasizes about tragic Greek heroes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During the phallic stage, according to Freud's theory, a boy experiences the Oedipus complex where he feels a desire for his mother and jealousy towards his father who is seen as a rival competing for the mother's affection. However, the boy also fears castration by the father who is seen as more powerful, leading to feelings of guilt and anxiety. Therefore, the best answer is B as it describes the key elements of the Oedipus complex.

The Oedipus Complex, the Psychosexual Conflict That Occurs at the Phallic