In psychoanalytic theory, which structure of personality is primarily responsible for mediating between instinctual desires, moral standards, and reality?

• A. The id
• B. The ego
• C. The superego
• D. The unconscious

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the three main structures of personality in psychoanalytic theory: the id, the ego, and the superego.
2. Recognize that the id represents instinctual desires and operates on the pleasure principle, seeking immediate gratification.
3. Know that the superego embodies moral standards and ideals, often imposing guilt or pride based on behavior.
4. Identify the ego as the structure that mediates between the id's desires, the superego's moral constraints, and the demands of reality.
5. Conclude that the ego operates on the reality principle, balancing these forces to make rational decisions.