Alfred Adler Personality Theory

Theory Description

Personality Theories originate from the awareness that astute, intellectual theorists perceive when observing, examining and evaluating their own mental state of mind. Although theories are tested through research; human characteristics have exhibited that they can be demonstrated to contain errors. The most recent knowledge of understanding personality theories derives from a combination of components such as research on reoccurrences, culture, psychobiology, learning, traits, and social psychology. Alfred Adler titled his theory Individual Psychology with the belief that everyone is differently motivated. Fascinated with finding out what driving force motivates a person to reach their potential, and what keep them going during difficult times, Adler referred to his theory as “striving for superiority” (Friedman, H. and Schustack, (2012). Adler viewed motivation as future endeavors rather than the outcome of the past. He differed the basic concept of his personality typology from Classical Greek typology by referring to them as (1) Ruling-Dominant, (2) Getting- Leaning, (3) Avoiding and (4) Socially useful (Friedman, H. & Schustack, M., 2012).

In conclusion, Adler became aware that expectations of what the future will bring is what motivates people, rather than what they’ve experienced in the past. His typology is based on how people respond to life on an individual basis. Adler’s typology is considered to be persuasive, yet it is difficult to validate. In compiling his theory, he chose to talk about the individual’s lifestyles and the way problems are handled, rather than speak on their activities, struggles and character. As children we’re maturing, we’re taught how society evolves, how society grows and it allows us to expand our creativity, outgrow fears, and advance in both intelligence and