Anal Personality (Noun)
Meaning
(psychoanalysis) a personality characterized by meticulous neatness and suspicion and reserve; said to be formed in early childhood by fixation during the anal stage of development (usually as a consequence of toilet training).
Classification
Nouns denoting attributes of people and objects.
Examples
- He struggled with perfectionism and rigidity, exhibiting the classic traits of an anal personality that made it difficult for him to relax and have fun.
- The psychiatrist believed that his patient's obsessive attention to detail and love of routine were indicators of an anal personality shaped by a strict upbringing.
- Her coworkers found her to be cold and unyielding, reflecting the reserve and suspiciousness typical of individuals with an anal personality.
- The term anal personality is often used to describe someone who is excessively concerned with order and cleanliness, as if the slightest deviation from these expectations would lead to chaos.
- Psychoanalysts contend that an anal personality develops in individuals who have difficulty navigating the challenges of the anal stage, often as a result of overly harsh toilet training.