Adlerian Reflection Paper

Throughout the process of this class we have covered many theoretical perspectives. Within each theory there were aspects that I agreed and disagreed on. However, after reviewing the theories in the book and engaging in some introspection and self-exploration, I have chosen Adlerian theory as my guiding theory. This theory fits well with my personality and is consistent with my beliefs about human nature, personality development, the change process, the focus of the session and the qualities a counselor should have. When it comes to human nature, Adler could have been called a soft determinist. He did not deny the contribution of genetics and its ability to impose some limitations on individuals. However, ultimately he believed that its what you do with or how you use those limitations that matter the most.

Fall, Holden, & Marquis (2010) described it as individuals being born into a society that molds the development of the individual’s personality, or “style of life”, that society being the child’s family. Experiences from my own life support this theoretical view on the environment and genetics. A primary example would regard my addiction. Addiction runs in my family, however it was the use of drugs within my home that initiated my drug and alcohol use. Furthermore, although I was born to addicted parents, as well as in an addiction saturated environment, it was ultimately my decision to use the disadvantages I encountered to better myself later in life that defined my style if life. Adler believed that change occurs when an individual is able to identify and understand