Freud's Psycho-Sexual Development
Freud's theory of psycho-sexual development postulates that individuals pass through a series of stages during their childhood, each characterized by a specific focus on erogenous zones and the resolution of associated conflicts. These stages play a significant role in shaping an individual's personality and behavior. The following periods of psycho-sexual development were considered important by Freud:

1. Oral Stage:
During the first year of life, the primary focus of pleasure and conflict is on the mouth and sucking. Freud believed that experiences during this stage could influence an individual's future personality, particularly in relation to dependency and oral fixation.

2. Phallic Stage:
Between the ages of three and six, children become aware of their gender identity and have strong attachments to their opposite-sex parent. The development of the Oedipus complex (for boys) and Electra complex (for girls) occurs during this stage. Freud considered this stage to be crucial for the formation of gender identity and the development of the superego.

3. Latency Stage:
The latency stage occurs between the ages of six and puberty. During this period, sexual impulses are repressed, and children focus on developing social and intellectual skills. Freud did not consider this stage to be as significant in the development of personality, as the sexual energy is largely dormant during this time.

4. Genital Stage:
The final stage of psycho-sexual development, which begins during puberty, is the genital stage. Sexual energy is focused on relationships and the establishment of mature, adult sexual relationships. Freud believed that successful completion of this stage leads to the development of a healthy adult personality.

Explanation of Correct Answer:
The correct answer is option C, the latency stage. Freud believed that the latency stage, characterized by a lack of overt sexual development, played a relatively minor role in the formation of personality compared to the other stages. During this stage, sexual energy is relatively dormant, and the focus is on the development of social and intellectual skills. While Freud acknowledged the importance of this stage in terms of cognitive and social development, he believed that the experiences of the previous stages had a more significant impact on personality formation.