Alfred Adler (1870–1937) is a seminal figure in the history of psychology and psychotherapy. This Austrian psychiatrist and psychologist is known for his contribution to understanding the human psyche and for developing the theory known as «individual psychology».
A. Adler was one of the pioneers of neo-Freudianism, but his approach differed substantially from the theory of S. Freud. Instead of focusing on sexual drives, A. Adler emphasized the role of individuality and motivation in personality formation. He developed concepts such as the person’s «primary task,» which consists in striving for superiority, and the «inferiority complex,» which influences an individual’s psychology.
A. Adler also contributed to the field of psychotherapy by proposing new methods of working with patients based on understanding their world and motivations. His works left a long-term impact on the development of psychology and psychotherapy, and his unique approach to the study of the human psyche remains a subject of active research and discussion in contemporary science.
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