Psychodynamic Therapies> Alfred Adler's Psychodynamic Therapy

Estimated time: 9 minutes

CISCE: Class 12

Adler's Psychodynamic Therapy

Adler, a famous Neo-Freudian, held that feeling of inferiority is an important cause of mental disorder.
He held that people quite often make basic mistakes in their thinking because of a feeling of inferiority, which leads to disorder in mental health.
The feeling that one has to please everybody or life is full of thorns interferes with mental health.
Adler developed techniques for changing these beliefs that are similar, to some extent, to more modern forms of therapy.

CBSE: Class 12

Adler's theory is known as Individual Psychology.
His basic assumption is that human behaviour is purposeful and goal-directed.
Each one of us has the capacity to choose and create.
Our personal goals are the sources of our motivation.
The goals that provide us with security and help us in overcoming the feelings of inadequacy are important in our personality development.

CBSE: Class 12

In Adler's view, every individual suffers from feelings of inadequacy and guilt, i.e., an inferiority complex, which arises from childhood.
Overcoming this complex is essential for optimal personality development.

CBSE: Class 12
CISCE: Class 12

Alfred Adler believed feelings of inferiority can cause mental disorders.
Inferiority may lead to wrong beliefs and faulty thinking, affecting mental health.
Adler’s theory, Individual Psychology, states that human behaviour is purposeful and goal-directed.
Personal goals motivate behaviour and help overcome feelings of inadequacy.
An inferiority complex from childhood must be overcome for healthy personality development.