Infantile Pleasures:

Infantile pleasures are the earliest experiences of sensual gratification and enjoyment of bodily functions and sensations, according to Freudian theory. These pleasures come from sucking (oral stages), bowel elimination (anal stage), and genital stimulation (genital stage). These activities provide pleasure independently of biological survival needs and form the foundation for adult sexuality. In infancy, this libido is concentrated in different body parts as the child goes through the stages of development. Freud referred to the totality of these pleasurable activities as psychic energy. The way a child experiences and resolves these stages has significant impact on later personality development (psyche). Seeking and achieving gratification contributes to developing a sense of self and understanding a relationship to the real world. Freud also noted excessive stimulation or repression of these infantile desires during development could lead to neuroses or pathological symptoms later in life.