(2) Unit 1 - Psychodynamic Assumption Two - Tripartite Personality

What did Freud believe about the adult personality?

That it is structured into three parts that develop at different stages in our lives: the id, ego and superego.

Which is the first part of our personality to develop?

The id - this is present from birth.

What are some of the traits of the id?

It is referred to as the ‘pleasure principle’ and controls the impulsive and unconscious part of our personality. It demands instant satisfaction and gratification at any cost.

What is the second part of our personality to develop?

The ego - this develops at around the age of 2.

What are some traits of the ego?

It is referred to as the ‘reality principle’ and controls the conscious, rational part of our personality. It’s function is to work out realistic ways on balancing the demands of the id in a socially acceptable way.

What is the final part of our personality to develop?

The superego - this develops at around the age of 4.

What are some traits of the superego?

It is referred to as the ‘morality principle’ and encompasses a sense of right and wrong. It aims to civilise behaviour to ensure that it is socially acceptable.

What can happen if the the id is dominant?

This could lead to a psychopathic personality type.

What can happen if the ego is dominant?

This could lead to a narcissist personality type.

What can happen if the superego is dominant?

This could lead to a neurotic personality type.

How can this assumption be linked to a behaviour?

The tripatite personality can be used to explain criminal behaviour. According to Freud, criminals are ruled by their id and their superego is suppressed. Criminals often lack a sense of morality and remorse and seek immediate pleasure and gratification regardless of the costs. This is true in the case of psychopaths, demonstrating the a dominant id can cause psychopathic behaviour.