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This is a thorough review of the precursors and other aspects leading to the full development of the superego. After defining ego ideal and superego, the author discusses the vicissitudes of early object relationships including preoedipal object ties, the delineation of self-representation from object-representation, the evolution of the superego, and the constant interreaction between ego and superego elements furthering the growth of both psychic structures in latency and adolescence. The concepts of fusion and defusion, and neutralization of drive energies are also briefly dealt with. Clinical vignettes are added to provide examples of pathological superego states and illustrations of superego lacunae.
Finally, the superego is conceived as the outcome of the integration among the mature ego ideal, various superego precursors, and secondary identifications within the ego which develop as a result of relinquishing Oedipal ties. A distinction is made between shame and guilt and attention is given to certain regressive potentials within the superego as well as the capacity for growth and alteration of the superego during latency, adolescence, and adulthood.