A person who cannot successfully compensate for inferiority, in Adler's theory, develops a(n)

A person who cannot successfully compensate for inferiority, in Adler's theory, develops a(n)

• A. inferiority complex
• B. superiority complex
• C. neurotic anxiety
• D. creative self

Answer: (A)

In Adler's framework, people feel inferior and try to compensate for those feelings. When that compensation does not succeed and the feelings of inferiority become persistent and pervasive, the result is an inferiority complex. This means a stable sense of being lesser than others that can shape thinking and behavior, often leading to low self-esteem, withdrawal, or overdependence rather than effective striving for growth. The other terms describe different dynamics. A superiority complex arises when someone overcompensates for inferiority by displaying arrogance or an inflated sense of worth, not from a failed compensation. Neurotic anxiety is a Jungian concept, not Adlerian. The creative self refers to the individual’s capacity to shape their life and personality, not a syndrome caused by failed compensation.

In Adler's framework, people feel inferior and try to compensate for those feelings. When that compensation does not succeed and the feelings of inferiority become persistent and pervasive, the result is an inferiority complex. This means a stable sense of being lesser than others that can shape thinking and behavior, often leading to low self-esteem, withdrawal, or overdependence rather than effective striving for growth.

The other terms describe different dynamics. A superiority complex arises when someone overcompensates for inferiority by displaying arrogance or an inflated sense of worth, not from a failed compensation. Neurotic anxiety is a Jungian concept, not Adlerian. The creative self refers to the individual’s capacity to shape their life and personality, not a syndrome caused by failed compensation.