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Inherent contradictions in the ego ideal
1Zucker Hillside Hospital of the North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System, Glen Oaks, New York, USA. karylc@optonline.net
The Psychoanalytic Quarterly
|December 15, 2010
Summary
The ego ideal, a child's fantasy of happiness, evolves through psychosexual stages, leading to inherent conflicts. These conflicts arise from contradictory wishes and aims, impacting development and romantic love.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychoanalytic Theory
Background:
- The concept of the ego ideal is central to understanding personality development.
- Previous theories have explored its formation and influence on behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel conceptualization of the ego ideal.
- To examine the evolution of the ego ideal across psychosexual development stages.
- To identify inherent conflicts within the ego ideal's structure and aims.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical analysis of psychoanalytic concepts.
- Exploration of psychosexual development stages.
- Examination of the role of fantasies and wishes in ego ideal formation.
Main Results:
- The ego ideal is conceptualized as a fantasied self promising gratification.
- Its content dynamically evolves with psychosexual development.
- The ego ideal is characterized by inherent conflicts stemming from contradictory wishes and fantasies.
- A contradiction of aim within the ego ideal is highlighted, particularly in the context of romantic love.
Conclusions:
- The ego ideal is a complex, conflict-ridden construct.
- Understanding these internal contradictions is crucial for psychoanalytic theory.
- The concept offers new insights into developmental psychology and the dynamics of romantic relationships.
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