What is the focus during the latent stage of Freud's psychosexual development?

During the latent stage of Freud's psychosexual development, which occurs roughly from ages 6 to puberty, the primary focus shifts away from the overt sexual interests typical of earlier stages. Instead, this stage is characterized by a significant emphasis on intellectual and social development. Children in this phase begin to engage more with peers outside of their family environment, developing friendships and learning social skills.

They also become absorbed in learning and expanding their knowledge, as the energies that were once directed toward their sexual development are now channeled into academic achievements and social interactions. This is a time when children start developing various cognitive abilities and begin to explore their interests and talents in a more structured way, often through school and extracurricular activities.

The latent stage serves as a crucial transitional period that prepares children for the more complex experiences of adolescence and the genital stage, focusing primarily on new forms of relationships and responsibilities rather than sexual maturity or exploration.