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In considering the problem of how to define an ego-distortion, it seems to me that we should try to differentiate this reaction from the ego's reaction in normal, neurotic, and borderline states. After stating that the ego-distortion is a defect, we shall want to point out next that the ego-distortion is a fixation. It is a reaction to a certain conflict in an early stage of its development, before the superego is formed. This reaction was never abandoned in favour of a more adequate reaction during the further growth of the ego. At least in general we may say that the ego-distortion is not a late appearance under the influence of a regressive process.
In order to distinguish the ego-distortion from a reaction leading to a neurotic symptom, we shall want to examine the relation of the distortion to an ego-defence. In my opinion, a distortion does not start as a defence. Traumatic influences prevent a part of the ego from developing further; this in principle is not a defence. Yet immediately it becomes clear that secondarily the ego may incorporate its distortion into its defensive system, a point that I will try to illustrate later. Thus it may happen, on the one hand, that an ego-distortion is so prevalent in the ego's behaviour that the whole case may be diagnosed as a special entity, such as the 'as-if' personality, for instance. On the other hand, in the majority of cases, as a result of the use of distortion by the defensive process, we find the distortions to a great extent embedded in the neurosis.
Regarding the borderline case, we may say that a tendency towards a development in a psychotic direction appears to be held in check by the opposing tendency to remain in contact with reality. This latter tendency is, of course, carried by the joint forces of ego and superego.
This trend towards disintegration marks the main difference between the ego-distortion and the ego in the borderline case. It will suffice to make the following statement: The ego-d