Reality Principle - Psychology Definition of the Week

Definition: In Sigmund Freud's theory of personality, the ego operates according to what is known as the reality principle. The reality principle works to satisfy the demands of the id in ways that are realistic and socially acceptable. The opposing process is known as the pleasure principle, which strives for instant gratification of the id's urges.

Learn more about how this process works in this definition of the reality principle.

Connect With Kendra: Facebook | Twitter

_{Image courtesy Piotr Bizior}