Adlerian Theory Themes Inferiority Motivated to move from

Adlerian Theory

Themes �Inferiority • Motivated to move from a “felt minus” toward “felt plus” • Striving for perfection or superiority • Results in development of the “Fictional Goal” �(later called it “Guiding self idea”) • Leads to development of “Style of Life” or “Lifestyle”.

Themes �Three main gateways • Lifestyle �Established by age 4 or 5 �Early memories often an indicator �See Exercise in Adlerian psychology on PSYC DWEEB �Incorporate our self concept, self ideal, world view and ethical convictions � 4 main types �Ruling �Getting �Avoiding �Socially useful

Themes • Family Constellation �Family relationships �Family roles �See attachment on PSYC DWEEB �Birth order • Dreams �Rehearsal for how to deal with problems in the future �Mood �Also an indicator of therapeutic process as they become more active

Process � � Lifestyle Investigation • Early memories • Family Constellation • Dreams Reorientation • Determine what they want to become (change the fictional goal) • Asking “The Question” �What would be different if……. ? • Acting “As If” �Role Play • Spitting in the Clients Soup �Identify a behavior and ruin the payoff

Focus �Encouragement • Most people operate out of discouragement so point out strengths and their ability to change toward a more positive lifestyle