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Alfred Adler
Definition:
Alfred Adler was an Austrian psychotherapist and founder of individual psychology. He proposed that feelings of inferiority and striving for superiority are key motivators in human behavior. Adler also emphasized the importance of social connections and community feeling in shaping personality and mental well-being.
The Contributions of Alfred Adler in Psychoanalysis
Alfred Adler, an Austrian psychiatrist and psychotherapist, was one of the key figures in the development of psychoanalysis in the early 20th century. Born in 1870, Adler was initially associated with Sigmund Freud and the Vienna Psychoanalytic Society but later broke away to form his own school of thought known as Individual Psychology.
Key Concepts by Alfred Adler
Adler placed significant emphasis on the individual's social context and the pursuit of personal goals as key motivators of behavior. He believed that feelings of inferiority often drive people to strive for superiority and that the need to belong and feel significant are powerful forces influencing human behavior.
Inferiority Complex
One of Adler's most renowned concepts is the "inferiority complex," which suggests that individuals who feel inadequate or inferior in some way may be driven to overcompensate by striving for success and recognition in other areas of their lives. This idea laid the groundwork for later psychological theories on self-esteem and self-efficacy.
Alfred Adler's work continues to influence modern psychology and therapy, emphasizing the importance of understanding an individual's unique perspective and life experiences in addressing mental health and well-being.
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