Chapter 5 Flashcards
What did Adler believed that the primary driving force behind human behavior was?
the striving for superiority or the desire to overcome feelings of inferiority
what is the approach of Adler called?
individual psychology
According to Adler, what is the goal of therapy?
the goal of therapy is to help individuals overcome feelings of inferiority, develop a stronger sense of social interest, and create a more positive and constructive style of life.
ex. imagery “picture yourself doing exactly what you want to do, how would things change”
according to adler, what can you transform feelings of inferiority into?
motivation for personal growth and achievement.
according to adler, what indicates mental health of a person
striving for superiority + social interest
what’s the single motivation source for adler?
striving for superiority
what can lead to excessive feelings of inferiority (in childhood) according to Adler?
- Physical or Mental Limitations: feel inadequate compared to others
- Pampering or Overindulgence: become overly dependent on others
- Neglect or Abuse: internalize a sense of worthlessness
fictional finalism
refers to the idea that individuals are motivated by an idealized, fictional goal or ultimate purpose that gives direction and meaning to their lives
ex. “I will only be happy if I become the best in my field and achieve widespread recognition.” Even though this might be an unrealistic goal, it motivates them to work hard, seek validation, and push themselves in their career.
meaning of Teleological
geared towards the future
when does inferiority complex developp
when a person is unable to compensate for normal inferiority feelings
-poor self-opinion, helpless, difficult to cope with life demands
when does a person develop superiority complex
when a person overcompensates for normal inferiority feelings
-self-centered, tend to denigrate others
how does adler explain styles of life
expression of striving is different and unique for every person
what is a mistaken lifestyle according to adler
unhealthy or maladaptive way of living and interacting with the world, which stems from their feelings of inferiority and an inaccurate perception of life
mistaken life styles
- ruling-dominant: Individuals who try to dominate or control others to overcome their feelings of inferiority. They often engage in aggressive or manipulative behavior, using power to compensate for their perceived weaknesses.
- getting-leaning: These individuals rely heavily on others for support and do not develop self-reliance. They often expect others to meet their needs, leading to dependency and a lack of personal responsibility.
- avoidant: People who avoid challenges or social interactions to protect themselves from failure or criticism. They tend to retreat from life, avoiding risks and opportunities for growth out of fear of failure.
What is the ideal lifestyle according to Adler?
Socially Useful Type: Individuals with a socially useful life style are cooperative, socially interested, and engaged in contributing to the welfare of others.
what is the equivalent of freud’s defense mechanisms in Adler’s theory
Safeguarding strategies
Safeguarding strategies: 3 forms of agression
Depreciation: “He doesn’t deserve to get this”
Idealization: Trying to put other down by making them look inferior compared to idealized standards
Solicitude: Let me help you with that. Can’t possibly be able to do that. See others as needing help, as being inferior.
safeguarding strategies: accusation
“you messed me up on purpose!!”
safeguarding strategies: blaming others
If it wasn’t from my colleague that screwed me up, i would have gotten the promotion
safeguarding strategies: moving backwards
do something easier to do well in it
safeguarding strategies: creating obstacles
Goal that is difficult to achieve, you create obstacle (like too tired), to have an excuse of why you don’t accomplish goals
safeguarding strategies: no lose situations
picking something that you cannot possibly fail
According to Carl Jung, what is the personal unconscious
the part of the unconscious mind that consists of an individual’s repressed memories, forgotten experiences, and subliminal perceptions (material that was once conscious)
According to Carl Jung, what is the collective unconscious?
deep layer of the unconscious mind that is shared by all human beings: made up of inherited experiences, memories, and patterns that are common to humanity as a whole, passed down across generations. these primordial images are archetypes
theory of collective unconscious: anima archetype
- the unconscious feminine side of a man
- associated with emotions, intuition, creativity, and the ability to form deep emotional connections