Introduction to Theories of Personality Chapter 4

A child's position in the family - to Adler a major factor in the development of personality

A synonym for social interest

Overcoming real or imagined inferiority through effort and practice, or by developing abilities in a different area. Physical inferiorities are often compensated for in psychological ways, whereas social interest enables the human race to compensate for its inferiority to the overwhelming forces of nature.

Memories of infancy and childhood. Even if inaccurate, these recollections provide important clues about the style of life because they are strongly influenced by the individual's self-selected goals.

Unrealistic life goals that influence behavior because they person acts "as if" they were true

The name Adler gave to his theory of personality

Exaggerated and pathological feelings of weakness, including the belief that one cannot overcome one's difficulties through appropriate effort. Usually accompanied by a conscious or unconscious superiority complex.

Normal and inevitable feelings of weakness that result from our helplessness during childhood. May stimulate healthy striving for superiority and compensations

Behavior motivated by objections to the belief that society regards men as superior to women. A form of superiority complex that may occur in males or females

Failing to give a child sufficient care and nurturing, which creates the belief that the world is a cold and unfreindly place. One of the three major reasons why a child selects mistaken, pathological goals

A significant physiological defect that can cause strong feelings of inferiority. Need not result in pathology if effectively compensated, but often becomes one of the three major reasons why a child selects mistaken and pathologenic goals

Giving a child excessive attention and protection. Pampering inhibits the development of initiative and independence, and creates the impression that the world owes one a living. One of the three major reasons why a child selects mistaken, pathogenic goals

An innate potential to relate to and cooperate with other people. Everyone possesses the potential for social interest, but it must be developed through appropriate training for personality to become well adjusted

A universal, innate drive to overcome feelings of inferiority by mastering our formidable environment. Healthy strivings for superiority are guided by social interest, whereas pathological strivings ignore the welfare of others

A person's chosen life goals and the methods used to achieve them