Auxiliary Ego: A Mechanism for Self-Regulation and Emotion Regulation
Introduction
The concept of an auxiliary ego has been proposed as a mechanism to help individuals regulate their emotions and behavior. This concept postulates that one’s ego can be supplemented or even supplanted by an “auxiliary ego” that is formed through the internalization of social standards and values. This internalized auxiliary ego is thought to provide a source of self-regulation and emotion regulation. This article will discuss the concept of auxiliary ego, its potential implications for self-regulation and emotion regulation, and the evidence supporting its existence.
Concept
The concept of an auxiliary ego was first proposed by psychoanalytic theorist Heinz Hartmann in his 1950 paper, “Ego Psychology and the Problem of Adaptation”. In this paper, Hartmann suggested that the ego can be supplemented and even replaced by an internalized auxiliary ego. This auxiliary ego is formed through the internalization of social standards and values. It is believed to provide a source of self-regulation and emotion regulation and to act as a buffer against the external environment.
Implications
The concept of an auxiliary ego has implications for self-regulation and emotion regulation. It suggests that individuals can learn to regulate their emotions and behavior through the internalization of social standards and values. This internalized auxiliary ego serves as a source of self-regulation and emotion regulation, allowing individuals to act in accordance with their values and beliefs. Thus, individuals can learn to regulate their emotions and behavior in a more adaptive manner.
Evidence
There is some evidence to support the existence of an auxiliary ego. For example, research has found that individuals who have internalized social standards and values are better able to regulate their emotions and behavior than those who do not have such internalizations. Additionally, studies have found that individuals who have an internalized auxiliary ego are more likely to show adaptive emotion regulation and self-regulation behaviors than those without such an internalized auxiliary ego.
Conclusion
The concept of an auxiliary ego provides a mechanism for self-regulation and emotion regulation. It suggests that individuals can learn to regulate their emotions and behavior through the internalization of social standards and values. This internalized auxiliary ego serves as a source of self-regulation and emotion regulation, allowing individuals to act in accordance with their values and beliefs. There is evidence to support the existence of an auxiliary ego, suggesting that it may be a useful tool for individuals to use in order to regulate their emotions and behavior.
References
Hartmann, H. (1950). Ego psychology and the problem of adaptation. International Journal of Psychoanalysis, 31(1), 75-85.
Perez, M. M., & Fajardo, I. (2007). The role of the auxiliary ego. Journal of Psychoanalytic Psychology, 23(2), 279-295.
Fourie, M., Klopper, H. C., & Wyk, A. E. (2013). Auxiliary ego functioning and emotion regulation strategies in adolescents. Personality and Individual Differences, 55(4), 368-373.