A brief sketch of the relation between the early phases of the individual dominated by ego-centric impulses and the later stages influenced by the formation of the ego-ideal and by further cultural development. 'Mental Health' is the outcome of some harmonious adjustment between these conflicting trends.

The necessity for external pressure (from parental, educational and social ideals) to adapt itself to the child's inner development is pointed out, and consequently the obligation of parents and educators to have some understanding of the child's psychic life. The difficulty in achieving such understanding is largely a matter of the adult's own repressions, making him incapable of seeing, or understanding even when he sees, the facts.

A brief reference is made to some of the important aspects of the child's early development, such as the omnipotent ego-centric stage with its oral and anal-erotic character, the formation of the ego-ideal, development of the Oedipus complex, among others.