Psychodynamic approach tripartite personality

Question 1

Define tripartite personality

Answer 1

The tripartite model of personality is the idea that the psyche is split into 3 parts; the id, the ego and the superego.

Question 2

Explain what is tripartite personality

Answer 2

The id is present from birth and is our pleasure principle.

It is driven by our libido and is our animalistic instincts, impulses, unconscious drives and motives.​

The ego develops around 2 years of age and is our reality principle.​

We require ego strength (which is developed in childhood) to balance the needs of the id and the superego. ​

The superego develops around the age of 4 years and is our morality principle.​

It is the internalisation of parental values and societal standards and is our conscience and ego ideal

Question 3

Examples for the tripartite personality

Answer 3

A healthy personality demonstrates ego strength. This is the ability to function despite the conflict between the different parts (the Id and Superego).​

Consequences of a weak ego could lead to;​

A dominant id which could lead to a psychotic personality, characterised by recklessness, impulsiveness and selfishness​

A dominant superego which could lead to a neurotic personality, characterised by feelings of shame, guilt, fear, worry and anxiety.