Metapsychology is the collection of higher level theories underlying and explaining the less abstract and experientially based theories of psychoanalysis. These theories are considered and formulated in interrelated contexts of force, excitation, time, organization, and adaptation. The principles are sometimes conceived of in the form of models, reifications which facilitate study and understanding.

Further, certain psychoanalytic metatheoretical assumptions are so pervasive as to be treated within the viewpoints rather than specifically cited. They include provision of the basis for a psychological theory of mind in the biopsychological human entity, psychologically determined mental phenomena, and a lawful sequential logic. The laws and dimensions are inherently impersonal. Their ultimate origin is unknown and perhaps, unknowable.