In Freud's theory, which stage runs from about 6 to 11 years and emphasizes the superego and friendships?

• A. Latent
• B. Oral
• C. Anal
• D. Genital

Answer: (A)

The stage is Latency. It runs roughly from ages 6 to puberty, when sexual energy is believed to be sublimated into other activities. During this period the superego strengthens as children internalize moral standards, and same‑sex friendships often become especially important. Energy that might have been directed toward sexual exploration is redirected into school, hobbies, and social development, which is why this stage is associated with learning and peer relationships rather than new sexual drives.

Note that Latency is the correct term; Latent is a common misspelling. Earlier stages focus on different drives (oral, anal, phallic), and later, the genital stage reemerges at puberty with renewed sexual energy.