Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Sigmund Freud's theory of psychosexual development has been a subject of much debate and critique within the field of psychology. This research project aims to provide a critical analysis of Freud's concept of psychosexual enlightenment of the child. Freud's theory posits that children progress through a series of stages, each characterized by a focus on a different erogenous zone and a conflict to be resolved. The first stage, the oral stage, focuses on the mouth as the primary erogenous zone, where the child's pleasure is derived from sucking and feeding. The anal stage follows, where the child's focus shifts to the anal region and the resolution of conflicts related to toilet training. The phallic stage is next, characterized by the child's interest in their own genitalia, leading to the Oedipus complex in boys and the Electra complex in girls. The latency stage follows, during which sexual energy is repressed, and finally, the genital stage, where mature sexual relationships are formed. Critics of Freud's theory argue that it is overly focused on sexual development and the role of unconscious desires in shaping human behavior. They contend that Freud's emphasis on sexual experiences in childhood may not be universally applicable and could lead to pathologizing normal development. Additionally, Freud's theory has been criticized for its lack of empirical evidence and reliance on subjective interpretations of patients' experiences. Despite these criticisms, Freud's theory has had a lasting impact on the field of psychology and continues to influence contemporary understandings of human development. This research project seeks to engage with these critiques and explore alternative perspectives on the psychosexual enlightenment of the child. By examining the limitations of Freud's theory and considering the cultural and historical context in which it was developed, this research aims to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of psychosexual development. Through a critical analysis of Freud's theory of psychosexual development, this research project aims to highlight the complexities and limitations of his conceptualization of the child's enlightenment. By engaging with alternative perspectives and considering the broader implications of Freud's ideas, this research seeks to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of human development and the factors that shape it.

Thesis Overview

PROBLEM AND BACKGROUND

1.1 INTRODUCTION

In the annals of history, sex has remained a mystery to both man and the society at large. Its importance in human life is so evident, yet no single human being has been able to give a conclusive explanation of what sex is. No human experience has been able to demystify the hidden meanings of this particular concept. Freud rightly asserts that, “the misunderstanding of sexuality is no intellectual error, nor an accidental ignorance”.[1]

On the other hand, sex has exerted many impacts on human life. These impacts of sex in the society can be seen in different human experiences. If we have a detour to the sacred scripture, we can see some of the negative impacts of sex in the human society. Some of these impacts can be seen in the story of Samson and Delilah in the book of Judges 16:17.

Another is seen where sex has led to the ruining of the interest of kingdoms as can be seen in the book of Kings Chapter 21 where Jezebel influenced Ahab to give order to the killing of Naboth. Another instance is seen in the story of Herod and Herodias, which led to the beheading of John the Baptist. Matt 14:10.

On the other hand, there are many positive impacts of sex as we can see in the story of Abraham and Sarah in the book of Genesis. A positive aspect is also seen in the lives of many families in our contemporary society. “The highest positive impact of sex in the human society is its place in the continuance of the human race”.[2] When sex is integrated, it makes for maturity and good human relationship.

In spite of the positive aspects of sex in human life, its place in our contemporary society has regrettably deteriorated. The reason is not far fetched and can be seen in the misconception of the concept of sex. Majority now see sex as a pleasure-giving thing and as a result, everyone is free to indulge in it at any time he feels.

Furthermore, the indiscriminate use of sex has led to the present day proliferation of diseases including the dreaded HIV, which is capable of wiping off the entire universe if precaution is not taken. These negative impacts of sex can also be seen in the anti-natural scientific inventions of many countries ranging from abortion, cloning etc. It has also led to some anti-cultural practices like gay marriage, marital unfaithfulness and pre-marital sex. The different religious denominations of the world also suffer these negative impacts as can be seen in the ordinations of gays as clergymen in the Anglican Church.

As a result of the debasement which sex has experienced in the contemporary society, I find it pertinent to advocate for a reasoned thought among all. Just as Plato asserted that “The kind of knowledge that helps one to distinguish between shadows, reflections, and real objects in the visible world is just the kind of knowledge that man needs to discriminate between the shadows and reflections of the genuinely good life,”[3]. I have set out to bring out a reasoned thought on how man can be able to discriminate between the shadows and reflections of sex and what it genuinely entails.

 

1.2 PROBLEM OF THE STUDY

Very deep is the well of the past …

For the deeper we sound, the further down into the lower world of the past we probe and press, the more we find that the earliest foundations of humanity, its history and culture reveal themselves unfathomable.

– Thomas Mann

The place of sex and its influence on the formation of the psyche of the adult through the developmental processes was what Sigmund Freud (1853 – 1939) set forth to offer to the world in his psychoanalytic theory. However, he did not do that without encountering some problems ranging from over centralization of sex as what constitutes man’s maturity and entire life to many other problems.

Freud’s lack of religious tenets made him justify many anti-natural problems, which he should not have done. For instance, he regarded sexual perversions like homosexuality, fetishism, sadism and masochism as justified though they are abnormal.

1.3 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

This work is intended to be a proper itinerary into Freud’s psychoanalytic theory in order to study his views, analyze them and finally to make a proper criticism of these views. I also intend to sift out the positive aspect of his theory and at the same time place it side by side with the place of sex in our present day society. Lastly I intend at the end of this study to present a dignified position of sex in the present day society.

1.4 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This research work will be based on the psychoanalytic theory propounded by Sigmund Freud. The views of other psychologists and some philosophers will however be entertained but only as they affect Freud’s line of thought.

 

 

 

 

 

1.5 METHODOLOGY OF RESEARCH

The method is expository, analytic and prescriptive. As this is a philosophical approach to Freud’s psychoanalytic theory, arguments based on faith are carefully avoided.

 

1.6 THE DIVISION OF THE WORK

This work is divided into four chapters. The first chapter is the general introduction into this scholarly work. The second chapter goes to explain what psychoanalysis is. The third chapter is an x-ray of Freud’s different theories on psychoanalysis. The fourth chapter is a critical evaluation of Freud’s psychoanalysis and his thoughts on the psychosexual enlightenment of the child.