
The Ego and the Id (theory)
The Id and Ego are concepts from psychoanalytic theory describing parts of the mind that influence behavior. The Id is the primal, instinctual part focused on immediate pleasure and desires, operating unconsciously. The Ego acts as the rational mediator that considers reality, social rules, and long-term consequences, making decisions that balance the Id’s impulses with what is practical and acceptable. In simple terms, the Id seeks immediate satisfaction, while the Ego helps navigate the real world to find socially appropriate responses, working to keep internal conflicts manageable.