Ego
Definition
The ego is the part of the mind that mediates between the conscious and unconscious, and is responsible for reality testing and a sense of personal identity.
Analogy
Think of the ego as a referee in a football game. It's there to enforce rules (reality), keep things fair, and make sure neither team (the id or superego) gets too out of control.
Related terms
Id: This is the primitive and instinctual part of the mind that contains sexual and aggressive drives and hidden memories.
Reality Principle: This principle refers to the ability of the mind to assess the reality of the external world, and act upon it accordingly, as opposed to acting on one's instincts (id) or moral considerations (superego).
Conscious Mind: This term refers to our awareness at any given moment; our thoughts, feelings, sensations that we are aware of in this moment.
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