What does the superego primarily regulate?

The superego is a critical component of Freud's structural model of the psyche, which also includes the id and the ego. Its primary function is to regulate moral and ethical behavior. It acts as the internalized societal and parental standards that dictate what is considered right and wrong. This part of the personality strives for perfection and operates on the moral principle, often opposing the desires of the id, which seeks immediate gratification.

When individuals experience feelings of guilt or shame after acting in ways that conflict with societal standards, it is typically the superego at work, reinforcing the importance of adhering to moral codes. This regulatory function is vital in maintaining socially acceptable behavior and guiding decision-making based on ethical principles rather than purely on immediate desires or logical reasoning.