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# Alfred Adler, Individual Psychology Alfred Adler's Theory of Individual Psychology posits that individuals are primarily motivated by social interests and a striving for superiority or self-improvement. ## Inferiority Feelings Infants are born with feelings of inferiority and inadequacy. These...

# Alfred Adler, Individual Psychology Alfred Adler's Theory of Individual Psychology posits that individuals are primarily motivated by social interests and a striving for superiority or self-improvement. ## Inferiority Feelings Infants are born with feelings of inferiority and inadequacy. These feelings motivate them to strive for superiority and rectify these weaknesses by developing other strengths. There are two components of these feelings: 1. **Primary Inferiority:** This is the "original and normal feeling" of inferiority. It is productive because it motivates a child to develop. Appropriate nurturing helps children to accept challenges and learn to overcome hurdles, leading to a "courage to be imperfect". 2. **Secondary Inferiority:** In contrast, secondary inferiority is an exaggerated feeling of inferiority in adults. If left unaddressed, these feelings can lead to a *inferiority complex*, characterized by feelings of inadequacy. ## Striving for Superiority Striving for superiority is an innate drive to overcome inferiority and strive for growth. It's a motivating force that encourages individuals to move from below to above, from negative to positive, and from inferior to superior. However, a *superiority complex* can occur when the need to prove superiority surpasses actual abilities and achievements. ## Birth Order Birth order refers to the order in which children are born in a family. * **First-born:** These children often demonstrate characteristics of a "guardian of law and order," a desire to exercise authority, and a strong desire to protect and help others. * **Second-born:** They typically strive for superiority under pressure and often attempt to surpass their older siblings in achievement. * **Youngest:** Often more sociable and dependent, these children have frequently been the "baby" of the family. * **Only child:** Being the sole focus of parental attention can lead to a high degree of dependence, a constant wait for guidance, and a search for support. ## The Creative Self, Social Interest, and Goal-Directed Behavior The creative self establishes, maintains, and pursues the goals of the individual, drawing on heredity and environment to shape personality. Social interest is the inherent human urge to adapt to societal conditions. Goal-directed behavior arises from our personal goals. While our guiding goals often serve as "fictions" (unrealistic aspirations based on assumptions), they nonetheless significantly influence our behavior. All human behavior is fundamentally goal-oriented and motivated by striving for superiority, with individuals differing in their goals and methods of achievement.