What is the difference between the id, the superego and the ego?

These are part of Freud's theory of the human psyche. The part of the unconscious mind. The id is concerned with instinctual impulses. Meaning it wants to satisfy basic needs, such as sex (libido) and aggression (death instinct, called Thanatos). It is not rational but impulsive. The superego is concerned with what is morally right. It learns from society what is socially acceptable behaviour, in order to control the id and it's impulses. It is reasonable and tries to keep you out of trouble.The ego is what mediates between the id and the superego, it tries to follow society's rules and expectations, whilst also trying to satisfy the id.For example, someone annoys you and is trying to pick a fight with you. The id would respond by punching the person, whereas the superego would respond by walking away, but the ego would find a balance and instead confront the person, but not in an aggressive way, but ask them why they are annoyed.

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Answered by Noorya S. Psychology tutor

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