Developmental Fixation

Definition

Developmental fixation is a concept in psychoanalytic theory where an individual remains stuck, or "fixated," at a particular stage of their emotional or sexual development due to unresolved conflicts or traumas.

Analogy

Think of developmental fixation like getting stuck on a level in a video game. You can't move forward to the next level until you've resolved all the challenges and conflicts in your current level.

Related terms

Psychosexual Stages: These are stages proposed by Freud that children pass through, each characterized by different demands for sexual gratification and different ways of achieving it.

Regression: This is a defense mechanism where one reverts to earlier stages of development when faced with anxiety or stress.

Freudian Slip: An unintentional error regarded as revealing subconscious feelings.