The concept of "Polymorphic Perverse" raised by Sigmund Freud is a fundamental notion in psychoanalytic theory. Freud used this expression to refer to certain stages of childhood sexual development and the nature of the desires and drives present in the psychic life of individuals. To fully understand this concept, it is essential to delve into Freud's ideas about psychosexual development and personality structure.
The stages of psychosexual development
Freud postulated that the psychosexual development of individuals occurs in different stages, each of which is characterized by the focusing of libidinal energy in a specific erogenous zone. These stages are:
1. Oral stage:
In the oral stage, which covers the first years of life, the baby experiences pleasure through the mouth, either through sucking on the mother's breast or on objects. Libidinal satisfaction focuses on the oral area, and any frustration or excess at this stage can have repercussions on the individual's personality in later stages.
2. Anal stage:
In the anal stage, which develops around 2-3 years of age, the focus of pleasure shifts toward elimination functions. Sphincter control and the ability to retain or expel feces are key elements in this stage. Freud pointed out the importance of socialization and parental control processes in the formation of the child's personality in this phase.
3. Phallic stage:
In the phallic stage, which takes place around the ages of 3-6, the most crucial phase in psychosexual development occurs. At this stage, children experience the Oedipus or Electra complex, in which incestuous desires towards the parent of the opposite sex and rivalry with the parent of the same sex develop. The resolution of this complex is crucial for the subsequent psychological development of the individual.
4. Latency stage:
In the latency stage, which spans from age 6 to puberty, sexual impulses appear to be latent, as libidinal energy is channeled into social, educational and recreational activities. Freud considered this stage to be a period of repression of infantile sexual desires, preparing the ground for the final stage of psychosexual development.
5. Genital stage:
The genital stage, which begins at puberty, is when libidinal energy is redirected to adult heterosexual relationships and the search for sexual satisfaction becomes the primary goal. It is at this stage when the sexual orientation of the individual is consolidated and the foundations for loving and sexual relationships in adult life are established.
The "polymorphic perverse" in child development
Freud introduced the term "polymorphic perverse" to describe the initial phase of childhood development in which the child's sexual desires and drives are not yet organized and limited by social and cultural norms. At this stage, children experience a "polymorphic" sexuality in which libidinal impulses manifest themselves in a diverse and unrestricted way.
The plasticity and breadth of desires in this phase are what make Freud use the term "polymorphic". Children can experience pleasure and express their sexuality in various ways, without being restricted by the social norms that they will later internalize through the socialization process. This phase is characterized by the absence of rigid divisions between what is permitted and what is prohibited in matters of sexuality.
The influence of sexual drives
Freud maintained that sexual drives, called sexual drives, life or erotic drives (Eros), and death drives (Thanatos), were fundamental drivers in the structuring of the human psyche. During the "polymorphic perverse" phase, the life drives manifest themselves in a disorganized and unrestricted manner, which gives the child a "perverse" nature in the sense that his desires are not yet channeled in accordance with conventional social norms.
It is important to understand that, for Freud, the term "perverse" does not have a moral connotation, but rather refers to the free and uncontrolled expression of sexual desires in the childhood. In this sense, the sexuality of the child in the phase of the "polymorphic perverse" is understood as a natural manifestation of his drives and not as a deviant or pathological behavior.
The passage of the "polymorphic perverse" " to adulthood
As the child progresses in his psychosexual development, the influences of the social and cultural environment begin to shape his impulses and desires. The rules and prohibitions imposed by society progressively restrict the expression of sexuality, and the individual internalizes these limits through the socialization process.
Freud proposed that the transition from the state of "polymorphous perverse " to an adult and socially acceptable sexuality implies a process of repression and sublimation of childhood desires. Repression consists of the inhibition of sexual impulses that are considered inappropriate or dangerous, while sublimation involves the diversion of libidinal energy toward socially valued goals, such as artistic creativity, intellectual production, or engagement in altruistic activities.
The "polymorphic perverse" in current psychoanalytic theory
Although the concept of "polymorphic perverse" was proposed by Freud in the context of his psychoanalytic theory, it has generated debate and controversy in the contemporary psychoanalytic community. Some psychoanalysts have criticized the notion of an inherently "perverse" childhood sexuality, arguing that children's sexual development should not be pejoratively labeled or pathologized.
On the other hand, other psychoanalysts have highlighted the relevance of the concept of "polymorphic perverse" in understanding the diversity and complexity of human sexual desires. The idea that sexuality manifests itself in multiple ways and that individuals experience a wide range of sexual impulses at different times in their lives has been considered valuable in exploring the intimacy of psychic life.
The impact in the psychoanalytic clinic
In the clinical setting, the notion of "polymorphic perverse" can be relevant in therapeutic work with patients who present conflicts or difficulties around their sexual or emotional life. Understanding that sexual desires and fantasies can be varied and complex, and do not necessarily fit with dominant social norms, allows therapists to adopt a more open and understanding attitude toward the diversity of human experiences.
Likewise, , the concept of "polymorphous pervert" can invite us to reflect on the importance of exploring and accepting one's sexuality, as well as to question the norms and taboos that can limit the full and healthy expression of the sexual dimension in life. of people. From this perspective, psychoanalysis can offer a work space in which self-knowledge, emotional expression and the integration of the deepest and most authentic aspects of the psyche are promoted.
Conclusion
In short, the concept of "polymorphic perverse" proposed by Freud represents one of the most significant contributions of psychoanalytic theory to the study of human sexuality. Through this notion, the complexity and diversity of sexual desires in childhood is revealed and it is invited to reflect on the influence of drives on the psychic life of individuals.
While the term may be provocative or controversial, it is important to consider it within the broader context of psychoanalytic theory and in relation to Freudian ideas about psychosexual development and personality structure. Ultimately, the concept of "polymorphic perverse" invites us to explore the richness and complexity of human sexuality, as well as to question the norms and conventions that can limit the authentic expression of our deepest drives and desires.