I agreed with Freud in that the anal stage is an important time in a child's life. I also believe that there is no "right" time to begin potty training your child. There has to be some sort of happy medium when attempting to teach this ability. I believe that if the children have shown an interest in this, then that is the appropriate time to teach them. Children are naturally curious and strive for the sense of accomplishment that comes with learning new things. I don't believe in forcing a task because it is expected, or normal, as it were, for the age of the child. I can't speculate that the results or failed attempts would create an anal compulsive or expulsive personality. I do believe that positive reinforcements beget positive results and the same can be said for negative. It is a delicate time for a child's development, and I don't believe there is a finite, right answer that suits every child.