ASWB LCSW Social Work Clinical Practice Exam

What principle does the Id operate on?

1. Reality principle

2. Morality principle

3. Pleasure principle

4. Ethical principle

The correct answer is: Pleasure principle

The Id operates on the pleasure principle, which is a fundamental concept in Freudian psychoanalytic theory. This principle suggests that the Id is driven by the desire for immediate gratification of basic instincts and impulses, such as hunger, thirst, and sexual desires. It seeks instant pleasure and avoids pain without considering the consequences, societal norms, or restrictions. The pleasure principle embodies the idea that the primary motivation of the Id is to satisfy its urges and fulfill needs as quickly and completely as possible. This is an unconscious process, and the Id does not engage in rational thought; it simply demands satisfaction. Understanding this principle is crucial for social workers as they navigate the complexities of human behavior and psychological processes in clinical settings.