what goes on in our heads can be thought of as being like a committee, with various aspects of our personalities sitting around the table—male as well as female, young and old, some noisy and demanding, others quiet and cut off. If we are fortunate, a healthy ego sits at the head of the table, chairing the committee, deciding when and who should have a turn or take the floor. A chairperson keeps order by being an observant participant and an effective executive—qualities shared with a well-functioning ego. When the ego functions well, appropriate behavior results.
