1. in psychoanalytic theory, the part of the mind that acts as a moral conscience, incorporating the values and morals of society
Usage: psychology; Freudian theory

Examples

• According to Freud, the superego develops during childhood as we internalize parental and social rules.
• Her superego made her feel guilty about taking credit for someone else’s work.
• The superego often conflicts with the id’s immediate desires.
• In therapy, he explored how his strict superego was causing anxiety.
• The superego represents society’s moral standards within our psyche.
• Children develop their superego by learning what behaviors are acceptable.