According to Freud, at what age does the phallic stage occur?

The phallic stage, according to Freud's psychosexual development theory, occurs between the ages of 3 to 6 years old. This stage is characterized by a child's exploration of their own body and an interest in the physical differences between boys and girls. During this period, children develop a sense of sexual identity and begin to identify with the parent of the same sex. Freud suggested that the dynamics of this stage play a crucial role in the development of the child's personality and can influence their relationships and behavior throughout life. Understanding this stage is essential in the context of Freud's broader theories of childhood development, where issues arising in this period can lead to specific fixation-related behaviors in adulthood.