A Brief Description of Alfred Adler and His Ideas

Dr. Alfred Adler (1870-1937), a Viennese psychiatrist, developed a personality theory he called “Individual Psychology,” individual in the sense of unique, indivisible, and holistic (not split into parts such as the ego and the id). Adler was the first in the fields of psychiatry and psychology to note the relevance of social relationships to mental health, and to emphasize the importance of nurturing our innate ability to cooperate as equal human beings.

A great many teachers and thinkers have taught and expanded upon Adlerian Psychology. Dr. Rudolf Dreikurs, a colleague and student of Adler, developed and spread practical applications of Adlerian theory, demonstrating how key concepts such as social interest (see description below), mutual respect, and encouragement can be applied to improve relationships, resolve conflicts and lead to harmonious and courageous living.

Both Adler and Dreikurs left Vienna during the 1930’s and continued their work in the United States. Much of their work in both countries was with teachers and parents who wanted to replace traditional autocratic styles of relating to children with more democratic – but not permissive – methods. The principles developed by Adler and Dreikurs have directly stimulated such programs as Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (STEP), Positive Discipline, Active Parenting and Developing Capable People.

INTERESTING NOTE: In its therapeutic applications, Adlerian Psychology is perhaps best known for the concept of the inferiority complex. Adler viewed some unhealthy behaviors as over-compensation for perceived shortcomings. Both the inferiority complex and over-compensation indicated to Adler an exaggerated concern with self. He found that this self-concern could be eased by nurturing one’s inherent abilities to cooperate and contribute through what Adler called the “life tasks” – work, intimacy, friendship and spirituality.

Social Interest
Adler’s concept holds that, as social creatures, human beings have a natural desire to contribute in a useful way for the good of humanity. (Think about your favorite 3-year-old, who is always wanting to help, even beyond their capabilities.) According to Adler, a desire for social significance must focus on contribution, not on status-seeking. Social interest is the foundation for sound mental health.

Respectful Living
Adlerian Psychology supports the concept of human equality. As Dreikurs said, “Equality means that people, despite all their individual differences and abilities, have equal claim to dignity and respect.” In Adlerian theory, cooperation and mutually respectful problem-solving are necessary for democratic citizenship in the family, in school, in the workplace and the world, as well as for individual well-being.

Goal-Directed Behavior
According to Adlerian theory, human beings are inherently goal-directed; that is, we have a reason or purpose for any behavior we engage in. (Though often this purpose is not at a conscious level.)

Belonging: Adler believed that as social beings, we all have a most basic goal of finding belonging and significance, and that our natural desire to belong is frequently misdirected (particularly in children) by mistaken perceptions of how to belong. Often when we become aware of our negative goals and the personal and social price we pay in their pursuit, we can choose more positive, contributing goals and thereby change our behavior and relationships.

Encouragement: Adlerians believe that an encouraging attitude is the most effective way to improve our lives and the lives of others. Encouragement focuses on effort, strengths, and opportunities for contribution and cooperation, not on mistakes. This nurtures self-confidence and the sense of belonging. Dreikurs said, “A child needs encouragement like a plant needs water.”