During which stage of psychosexual development does the mouth become the center of gratification?

The oral stage is the first phase in Freud's theory of psychosexual development, which occurs approximately from birth to about 18 months. During this stage, an infant's primary source of interaction and pleasure comes from the mouth. Activities such as sucking, biting, and breastfeeding are essential for the child’s development and serve as the key means through which they explore their environment and satisfy their needs.

Freud theorized that fixation at this stage could lead to certain personality traits in adulthood, such as dependency or aggression, stemming from issues related to oral gratification. Thus, the mouth is not just a means of nourishment but also the center of pleasure and comfort during this crucial developmental period. The focus on oral stimulation underscores the importance of attachment and caregiving, as these experiences help shape the individual’s later personality.

The other stages mentioned focus on different areas of the body and types of gratification, such as the anal stage focusing on control and order, the phallic stage involving identification with the same-sex parent, and the genital stage focusing on mature sexual intimacy, hence making the oral stage distinct in its emphasis on mouth-centered experiences.