Reality Principle

Definition

The reality principle refers to the ability of the mind to assess the reality of the external world, and act upon it accordingly, as opposed to acting on desires or fears.

Related terms

Pleasure Principle: This is driven by id where immediate gratification is sought after without considering consequences.

Delayed Gratification/Self Control: Ability to resist small immediate rewards in order to gain larger ones later which comes under control of Ego based on Reality Principle.

Perception: Process by which individuals organize & interpret their sensory impressions in order to give meaning to their environment.