US High School Psychology Complete Practice Exam 2025

In Freud's psychoanalytic theory, the ego is responsible for mediating between the desires of the id (which operates on the pleasure principle) and the constraints of the superego (which operates on the morality principle). The ego operates according to the reality principle, which means it seeks to satisfy the id's desires in a realistic and socially appropriate manner. This involves considering the consequences of actions and finding a balance between immediate gratification and long-term benefit, ensuring that a person acts in a way that is acceptable in society while still addressing their needs and urges.

The reality principle allows the individual to delay gratification and make choices that are in line with real-world limitations, facilitating problem-solving and decision-making that are rational. By adhering to this principle, the ego plays a crucial role in helping individuals navigate their surroundings while balancing their inner conflicts. The other principles mentioned in the options, such as morality and instinct, relate to the superego and id, respectively, but it is the reality principle that defines the ego’s functioning.