In brief, an examination of the psychoanalytic concept of instincts (general theory) and its two subsidiary hypotheses of differentiated libidinal and aggressive instincts (special theory) shows certain inconsistencies in relation to reaction patterns in general, when viewed according to epigenetic principles. The chief difficulties lie in the fact that they deal mainly in terms of energy, and further require the concept of differentiation of energy.

Alternative hypotheses are proposed, in terms of structurofunctional reaction patterns, which are more in keeping with epigenetic principles, and which seem better to account for the phenomena involved, i.e., certain mechanisms of mental function. A re-evaluation of the theory of affects, as structuralized positive and negative affect representations, in association with the self-system, permits a reformulation of the concepts of narcissism and masochism, without postulating differentiated libidinal and aggressive energies. Structural problems relative to the self-system are examined, and the id concept is reappraised.