ADLERIAN THEORY OF COUNSELING

Adlerian theory of counseling

Adlerian theory of counseling

Adler would come to have an enormous? independent effect on the disciplines of counseling and psychotherapy as they developed over the course of the 20th century (Ellenberger? 1970). He influenced notable figures in subsequent schools of psychotherapy such as Rollo May? Viktor Frankl? Abraham Maslow and Albert Ellis. His writings preceded? and were at times surprisingly consistent with? later neo-Freudian insights such as those evidenced in the works of Karen Horney? Harry Stack Sullivan and Erich Fromm (Fiebert? 1997? 241-269).

Adler emphasized the importance of equality in preventing various forms of psychopathology? and espoused the development of social interest and democratic family structures for raising children. His most famous concept is the inferiority complex which speaks to the problem of self-esteem and its negative effects on human health (e.g. sometimes producing a paradoxical superiority striving). His emphasis on power dynamics is rooted in the philosophy of Nietzsche. Adler argued for holism? viewing the individual holistically rather than reductively? the latter being the dominant lens for viewing human psychology. Adler was also among the first in psychology to argue in favor of feminism making the case that power dynamics between men and women (and associations with masculinity and femininity) are crucial to understanding human psychology (Connell? 1995). Adler is considered? along with Freud and Jung? to be one of the three founding figures of depth psychology? which emphasizes the unconscious and psychodynamics (Ellenberger? 1970; Ehrenwald? 1991). Named after Alfred Adler? Adlerian theory primarily emphasizes birth order? individual life styles? social interests? and concepts pertaining to inferiority and superiority as principle components of personality. For Adler? psychological health is determined by the level of social contribution beneficial to the greater community (Fiebert? 1997? 241-269). To the degree? that one integrates and furthers the social context? thus the measurement of his or her mental health. Social contribution is increased through the reduction of mistaken beliefs? which frequently lead to maladaptive feelings of inferiority or superiority. This goal of combating false beliefs is attained through an understanding of family constellations? early memories? and dreams.

For psychologists? translating the goals of Adlerian theory into a therapeutic process has resulted in an approach to counseling that varies widely among practitioners. These goals are to bring about an increased social interest? modify self-destructive behavior? and solve problems more efficiently. To reach these aspirations in a clinical setting? psychotherapy provides a choice to counselors as a base for identifying and addressing incorrect thoughts and belief patterns. This influence of psychotherapy owes its' origin to Sigmund Freud? an indirect contributor to Adlerian therapy.

Initial sessions provide Adlerian therapists with an opportunity to observe and assess clients in order to gauge their family dynamics? present lifestyle? and early childhood experiences. These assessments may be formal or informal using questionnaires or direct inquiry. Further to this? therapists also rely on dreams and the interpretive meaning for the client's current situation and struggles (Fiebert? 1997? 241-269).

Several practical techniques are used in Adlerian ...