latency period

n. 1. In psychoanalysis, the period of middle childhood during which overt sexuality is latent. During this period sexuality is repressed and its energy is directed into becoming the child's ideal of a man or a woman. 2. In Erikson's epigenetic cycle, the period of middle childhood, during which a child attempts to master the tasks her/his culture requires of an adult. In doing this he/ she develops a sense of industry and a belief in his/her own competence.