Adler Personality Theory

Case Study # 99855

Psychology > Case Studies
Psychology > Therapies

A case study that examines Adlerian psychology and counseling.

1,699 words () | 4 sources | APA | 2007 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses Alfred Adler's theory of personality which is based on the need to strive for power and superiority and addresses lifestyles. The paper presents a case study and shows the relevance and application of Adler's theories. The paper describes the antisocial behavior and suppressed aggression in the case and discusses Adlerian treatment, which seeks to return the client to normative behavior in the community. The paper relates that Adlerian behavioral and marriage therapy would be recommended for this client.

Outline:
Alfred Adler's Theory: A Summary
Presenting Problem
Case Formulation
Treatment Recommendations

From the Paper:

"Alfred Adler was a neo-Freudian. He was also a member of the Vienna Psychoanalytic Society, along with Freud and others. Like Freud, Adler had a theory of personality. Unlike Freud, however, who based his theory on sexual needs and development, Adler based his theory of "individual psychology" on the need to strive for power and superiority. Adler's theory focused largely on the social interest and social interactions."

Sample of Sources Used:

Adler, A. (1979). Superiority and social interest: A collection of later writings. NY: W. W. Norton & Company, Inc.Case study (requires reference from client)
Lundin, R. (1989). Alfred Adler's basic concepts and implications. Levittown, PA: Taylor & Francis Group-Accelerated Development.
Mosak, H. (1999). Primer of Adlerian psychology: The analytic-behavioral-cognitive psychology of Alfred Adler. Ann Arbor, MI: Braun-Brumfield.
Sweeney, T. (1998). Adlerian counseling: A practitioner's approach. Castelton, NY: Hamilton Printing Company.