reality principle
noun
re·al·i·ty principle
rē-ˈal-ət-ē- 
: the tendency to defer immediate instinctual gratification so as to achieve longer-range goals or so as to meet external demands (as from the physical environment or from a group of psychologically significant individuals) compare pleasure principle
Cite this Entry
“Reality principle.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/reality%20principle. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.
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