Which psychological theory emphasizes conflict at different stages of life development?

Psychoanalytic theory, developed by Sigmund Freud, emphasizes the importance of internal conflicts that arise at various stages of development throughout a person's life. According to this theory, each stage involves specific conflicts or challenges related to or arising from fundamental psychological drives and societal expectations. For instance, Freud proposed stages such as the oral, anal, phallic, latency, and genital stages, each characterized by particular conflicts that influence personality development.

The resolution of these conflicts is crucial for healthy psychological development. If an individual successfully navigates through these stages, they develop a well-rounded personality; failure might result in fixation or unresolved issues that could manifest in adulthood. This focus on conflict as a fundamental aspect of development distinguishes psychoanalytic theory from other psychological schools, such as cognitive theory, which prioritizes thought processes; behaviorism, which focuses on observable behavior; and humanistic theory, which centers on personal growth and self-actualization.