Alfred Adler in AP Psychology

Definition

Alfred Adler was an Austrian medical doctor and psychotherapist, known for founding the school of individual psychology. He emphasized the importance of feelings of inferiority in the individual's psyche and proposed that these feelings drive people to strive for superiority.

Related terms

Inferiority Complex:

A term coined by Adler, it refers to a person's feelings that they are lesser or inferior to others, which can lead them to overcompensate through various forms such as extreme competitiveness or social withdrawal.

Individual Psychology:

This is the psychological method or science founded by Alfred Adler. It emphasizes understanding individuals within their social context.

Superiority Complex:

Another term introduced by Adler, it refers to an exaggerated feeling of being superior than others, often used as a mechanism to cover up deep-seated feelings of inferiority.