In psychoanalytical theory, a client's lack of remorse in antisocial personality disorder is likely due to what underdeveloped aspect of personality?

The correct answer is that the lack of remorse in antisocial personality disorder is attributed to an underdeveloped superego. In psychoanalytical theory, the superego is the part of the personality that internalizes societal norms and morals. It serves as a moral compass, guiding behavior according to ethical principles and feelings of guilt or remorse when one violates these standards.

Individuals with antisocial personality disorder often exhibit a profound disregard for the rights of others and lack feelings of guilt or remorse for their harmful actions. This can be attributed to an underdeveloped or impaired superego, which fails to instill a sense of moral responsibility. Essentially, they may not feel the societal pressures or norms that typically would invoke feelings of remorse.

In contrast, the id represents primal instincts and desires, while the ego mediates between the id and reality, which are not directly responsible for feelings of remorse or moral judgment. The limbic system, while involved in emotions and behavioral responses, is not the primary focus in the context of psychodynamic theory regarding moral development and interpersonal conduct. Therefore, the underdevelopment of the superego is the key factor in understanding the absence of remorse in individuals with antisocial personality disorder.