During which stage do children derive pleasure from examining and displaying their genitals?

The correct answer is the Phallic Stage, which occurs roughly between the ages of 3 and 6 years, according to Sigmund Freud's psychosexual development theory. During this stage, children discover and explore their bodies, particularly their genitals, leading to a heightened curiosity about sexual differences and their own sexual identity. This exploration is a key aspect of their development and can include a desire to display their genitals and an interest in understanding the differences between boys and girls.

In contrast, the Latency Stage, which follows the Phallic Stage, is characterized by a relative calm in sexual urges, as children instead focus on developing social skills and friendships. The Anal Stage, which occurs before the Phallic Stage, is primarily concerned with toilet training and the control of bodily functions rather than genital exploration. Meanwhile, the Oral Stage, which occurs in infancy, involves pleasure derived from oral activities such as sucking and biting, rather than genital examination and display. Understanding these stages provides insight into how various aspects of the self and identity develop during early childhood.