Adlerian Therapy: Overcoming Inferiority and Finding Your Place in the World

Adlerian therapy, developed by Alfred Adler in the early 20th century, is a holistic and humanistic approach to psychology that focuses on the individual’s sense of belonging, social connection, and overcoming feelings of inferiority. It emphasizes the idea that human behavior is motivated by the desire to achieve a sense of significance and contribution to society, rather than by unconscious drives or instincts.

At the core of Adlerian therapy is the belief that individuals are not merely the product of their past but have the capacity for change and growth. Adler proposed that people are motivated by the need to overcome feelings of inferiority and achieve superiority, not in an arrogant sense, but through striving to improve and contribute to the community. This idea of striving for success is central to understanding human behavior and helps guide the therapeutic process.

One of the key principles of Adlerian therapy is the importance of social interest, or Gemeinschaftsgefühl. Social interest refers to the ability to empathize with others, contribute to society, and feel connected to a larger community. Adler believed that a lack of social interest or an individual’s sense of isolation could lead to psychological distress. Therapy, therefore, aims to foster greater social interest and help individuals develop a sense of belonging within their social groups.