Dialectical relations between goals of different levels in norm and in pathology are considered. The authors' hypothesis that psychopathies are characterized by rigid relations between real and ideal goals, while neuroses are characterized by hyperseparation of them has been experimentally proved. A new view of the structure of self-estimation is introduced, and its psychological components and substructures are outlined. Some specific disturbances in relations between different substructures in neurotic and psychopathic patients are described, and connections between these disturbances and peculiarities of the goal-setting process are shown. Corresponding recommendations pertaining to psychological-corrective work are provided.