What is the first stage in Freud's stages of psychosexual development?

The first stage in Freud's stages of psychosexual development is the oral stage. This stage occurs from birth to approximately 18 months of age, where an infant's primary source of interaction with the world is through the mouth. During this stage, children derive pleasure from activities such as sucking, biting, and chewing. Freud believed that this period is crucial for the development of trust and comfort as the infant's needs for nourishment and oral stimulation are met primarily through feeding. The successful resolution of conflicts during this stage lays the groundwork for the child’s future psychological health, influencing personality traits such as dependency or aggression.

In essence, the oral stage sets the foundation for later stages of development, illustrating the importance of early experiences in shaping an individual's personality and behavior.