The concept of "the Self" in psychology is fundamental to understanding the structure and functioning of the human mind. Broadly speaking, the Self represents the part of the personality that is considered the center of consciousness, identity, and self-perception. Throughout the history of psychology, different theories have attempted to define and explain the role and nature of the Self in human experience.
History of psychology conceptualization of the Self
The concept of "the Self" has its roots in the psychoanalytic theory of Sigmund Freud, who described it as the part of the mind that operates according to the reality principle and seeks to balance the demands of the id, the superego and the external world. Later, Carl Jung expanded this notion by introducing the concept of "Personal I" and "Collective I" in his theory of archetypes and the collective unconscious.
Freud and the I
According to Freud, the ego develops from the id in early childhood and acts as a mediator between the instinctive demands of the id, the social norms internalized by the superego, and the realities of the external world. The Ego is responsible for managing anxiety, decision-making and the perception of reality, using defense mechanisms such as repression, projection or denial to protect itself from internal and external conflicts.
Jung and the concepts of personal self and collective self
Jung, on the other hand, distinguished between the personal self, which represents the individual and conscious identity of each person, and the collective self, which connects each individual with the symbolic and archetypal heritage of humanity. For Jung, the personal Self is only a part of the psychic totality, and the process of individuation involves the integration of aspects of the collective unconscious into the individual consciousness.
Functions of the Self
From the perspective of psychoanalytic theory, the Self performs several essential functions in the human psyche, including:
1. Reality and perception
The Self is responsible for perceiving external and internal reality and for adapting the individual's responses to the demands of the environment. Through the senses and cognition, the Self constructs a representation of reality that guides behavior and decision-making.
2. Impulse Control
One of the primary functions of the ego is to regulate the impulses and desires of the id to ensure that they conform to the social and moral norms internalized by the superego. This capacity for self-control is crucial to maintain psychological balance and adaptation to the environment.
3. Defense and adaptation
The Ego uses different defense mechanisms to protect psychic integrity against internal conflicts or external threats. These mechanisms, such as repression, rationalization or identification, help the individual to face stressful or traumatic situations in an adaptive way.
Contemporary theories about the Self
Over time , different psychological currents have provided new perspectives on the concept of Self and its functioning in the human mind. Some of the most relevant contemporary theories include:
1. Theory of the central self of personality
According to the theory of the central self of personality, proposed by psychologists George Kelly and Albert Ellis, the self is structured around a central set of beliefs and values that determine the perception of oneself and the world. These fundamental beliefs guide the person's behavior and decisions, influencing their psychological well-being.
2. Transactional Self Theory
The transactional Self theory, developed by psychiatrist Eric Berne, focuses on the dynamics of interpersonal relationships and communicative transactions between the Selves of different individuals. Berne identified three ego states: the Parent, the Adult and the Child, which represent different ways of thinking, feeling and acting in social interactions.
3. Theory of Egos in Gestalt Therapy
In Gestalt Therapy, Egos are conceived as fragmented parts of the personality that seek to integrate and achieve self-realization. The Gestalt therapist works with the different Egos of an individual so that they become aware of their needs, desires and internal conflicts, promoting integration and personal fulfillment.
The Ego in psychopathology
Inadequate functioning of the ego or conflicts in its development can give rise to various psychological and psychiatric disorders. For example, a weak or fragmented Self may result in difficulties managing stress, regulating emotions, or maintaining self coherence. On the other hand, an excessively rigid or controlling ego can generate mental rigidity, anxiety and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.
Personality and ego disorders
Personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder or obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, are characterized by dysfunctional patterns in the structure and function of the Self. These disorders can cause internal conflict, emotional instability and difficulties in social and work adaptation.
Therapeutic interventions focused on the Self
Therapy focused on the Self, such as cognitive therapy- Behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy or humanistic therapy, focuses on strengthening the structure and functions of the Self to promote mental health and emotional well-being. Through the exploration of the Self's beliefs, values, emotions, and behaviors, therapists help individuals understand themselves, resolve internal conflicts, and improve their quality of life.
Conclusions
In summary, the concept of "the Self" in psychology represents the central part of the personality that integrates self-perception, impulse regulation and adaptation to reality. Throughout the history of psychology, different theories have contributed to understanding the nature and functioning of the Self, highlighting its importance in the mental health and psychological well-being of individuals.