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In each psychic process a certain intensity of instinct (which cannot be measured yet) has an optimal action on the ego, or in other words, only if an instinct of a certain intensity becomes satisfied, a maximum of ego activity is the result. If the quantity of instinct is larger than this optimum the functions of the ego become paralysed. The action is similar to that of a paralysing drug. If the quantity of instinct is smaller than the optimal quantity, ego activities are in the same way paralysed. Disturbances of ego function must therefore be expected in all cases in which the optimal quantity of instinct is not reached. Several factors are responsible for the possibility of satisfaction of an optimal quantity of instinct.
1The first factor is the absolute intensity of instinct. If the intensity of instinct become increased by normal or morbid bodily processes, as puberty, menopause or illnesses, an inundation of the ego with a disturbance of its functions is the result. If the absolute intensity of instinct is too weak, one can assume that the ego has no possibility of normal development.
2The second factor is the relative intensity of instinct, that is the relationship between the strength of the instinct and the strength of the ego. If a certain quantity of instinct works upon a weak ego, the ego becomes overwhelmed by the id. If the same quantity of instinct works upon a strong ego, two results are possible:
a.the ego is able to admit that quantity of instinct which allows its optimal activity;
b.or the ego represses too much of the quantity of instinct and a disturbance of function is the result.
The ego may repress the instinct:
a.in order to avoid a conflict with the id, if the instinct for instance is connected with an instinct not allowed to become conscious;
b.in order to avoid a conflict with the super-ego out of guilt-feeling;
c.in order to avoid a disturbance of narcissism or to deny a narcissistic grievance.