Question

Meera always felt left out, low and incompetent as a child because her elder siblings were more successful. Now she works extremely hard to be the best in every task she takes up. According to Adler, this behaviour can be explained by:

• A. Fixation
• B. Inferiority Complex
• C. Superiority Complex
• D. Regression

Hint:

In Adlerian theory, Inferiority is the "cause" and Superiority is the "goal" or the behavior aimed at overcoming that cause.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To understand Meera's behavior, we need to analyze it through the lens of Alfred Adler's psychological theory. Adler, a famous psychologist, proposed various concepts to explain personality and behavior. Let's explore each of the options provided and determine which best explains Meera's behavior:

1. Fixation: This concept, primarily developed by Sigmund Freud, refers to an individual's persistent focus on an earlier psychosexual stage due to unresolved conflicts. Fixation does not typically explain behaviors aimed at proving superiority or achieving excellence.
2. Inferiority Complex: According to Adler, an inferiority complex arises when a person feels inadequate or inferior to others, often due to experiences in childhood. This stems from actual or perceived weaknesses, leading to feelings of helplessness. While Meera initially felt left out and incompetent, her current behavior is not indicative of an inferiority complex. Her pursuit of being the best shows a shift from feeling inferior to overcoming that through actions.
3. Superiority Complex: This is the correct explanation for Meera's behavior. A superiority complex arises when an individual overcompensates for perceived inferiorities by striving to excel and prove their worth in every task. Meera's determination to be the best is an attempt to counteract her past feelings of being left out and incompetent.
4. Regression: This is another Freudian concept, which involves reverting to an earlier stage of development when faced with stress. It is characterized by childish behaviors, which do not align with Meera's goal-oriented and ambitious actions.

Thus, the behavior exhibited by Meera, driven by her need to prove herself and succeed, can best be explained by the Superiority Complex. Meera's actions are a form of overcompensation for her past feelings of inadequacy, aligning with Adler's theory.