Alfred Adler

by Katy Rose (2017)

Individual Psychology emphasizes the uniqueness of the individual incorporating four major principles; “…holism, the unity of the individual’s style of life, social interest or community feeling, and the importance of goal-directed behavior” (Frager, 2013). Adler understood behavior in context of the physical and social environment. Adler emphasized power rather than sexuality as the basic human drive adding the social environment impacted behaviors more than the unconscious, both theories in direct opposition to Freud. Adler believed understanding a person’s “wholeness” rather than analyzing the parts as Freud theorized, would offer psychological understanding of the personality.

Adler’s theory that life goals were formed in early childhood due to a feeling of inferiority, insecurity and helplessness in an adult world. Adler believed by the end of the fifth year, the child’s personality has crystalized “…meaning he gives to life, the goal he pursues, his style of approach, and his emotional disposition are all fixed.” (Frager, 2013).

In relation to Adler’s theory on organ inferiority, I see correlations with the Psychology of the Five Elements and the Officials in Chinese medicine. It appears to me we all are accessing the collective unconscious wisdom within the constructs of our specific cultural communities.

References

Frager, R., & Fadiman, J. (2013). Personality and personal growth. Boston, MA: Pearson.