The role of the ego in bringing warded-off contents to the surface is underestimated in certain explanations in the theory of therapy which are based on pre-ego psychology models of therapy. The observation that the neurotic patient is not ordinarily overwhelmed by the coming forth of a warded-off content shows that the ego regulates this process, bringing the content forth only when it is safe to do so. This concept implies an ego that unconsciously exercises control over certain of its defences.

An example of an unsatisfactory explanation, which underestimates the role of the ego, is the idea that the frustration in the transference of a warded-off content may play a major role in bringing it to consciousness.