true self

in psychoanalytic theory, the total of an individual’s potentialities that could be developed under ideal social and cultural conditions. The term is used in the context of Erich Fromm’s approach to neurosis as a reaction to cultural pressures and repressed potentialities. It is also used in the client-centered therapy of Carl Rogers and in the object relations theory of British psychoanalyst Donald Winnicott (1896–1971). The realization of the true self is a major goal of therapy.

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Psychology term of the day

February 22nd 2025

industrial democracy

a system of managing an organization in which employees participate in important decisions. An example would be the use of autonomous work groups in which employees determine their work procedures and assignments and are responsible for evaluating and rewarding performance. See also participative decision making; quality circle; Scanlon plan.