A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

At what age was Little Hans observed by Freud?

1. 1-3 years old

2. 3-5 years old

3. 5-7 years old

4. 7-10 years old

The correct answer is: 3-5 years old

The observation of Little Hans by Sigmund Freud took place when Hans was between the ages of 3 and 5 years old. This period is particularly significant in psychosexual development, as it aligns with the phallic stage, during which Freud posited that children experience the Oedipus complex and become more aware of their sexual identity. Freud's study of Little Hans focused on the child's phobias and fantasies, revealing insights into the developmental processes and the dynamics of the parent-child relationship during this formative stage. The analysis provided an early example of Freud's theories in action, supporting his broader concepts of psychoanalysis and childhood development. In terms of the other age ranges, observing Hans at ages 1-3 would miss the critical period of phallic development that Freud emphasized, while ages 5-7 and 7-10 would mean that the observational focus would skew towards the resolution phase of conflicts rather than the development of anxieties and fantasies prevalent in earlier years. Thus, the ages of 3 to 5 were pivotal for Freud's research into childhood fears and desires.