1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Psychology

What is the Id?

By , About.com Guide

Definition: According to Freud’s psychoanalytic theory of personality, the id is the personality component made up of unconscious psychic energy that works to satisfy basic urges, needs, and desires. The id operates based on the pleasure principle, which demands immediate gratification of needs.

More Psychology Definitions>> Psychology Dictionary

Explore Psychology

About.com Special Features

A Smarter Future

Tips that will help finance your education, excel in the classroom, and advance your career. More >

How to Ace the GRE

Being well prepared is the first step; here are more essential suggestions. More >

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Psychology
  4. Psychology Dictionary
  5. I Index
  6. Id - What Is the Id>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.