key term - Striving for Superiority

Definition

Striving for superiority is the fundamental human motivation to overcome feelings of inferiority and achieve a sense of mastery and accomplishment. It is a central concept in the theories of several Neo-Freudian psychologists, including Alfred Adler, Erik Erikson, Carl Jung, and Karen Horney.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Adler believed that the striving for superiority is the primary motivator of human behavior, as individuals seek to overcome their perceived weaknesses and achieve a sense of power and control.
2. Erikson's theory of psychosocial development emphasizes the importance of resolving the crisis of inferiority versus industry during the childhood years, which lays the foundation for the individual's later striving for mastery and competence.
3. Jung's concept of the 'will to power' is closely related to the striving for superiority, as he believed that individuals are driven by a desire to assert their unique individuality and overcome their limitations.
4. Horney's theory of the 'real self' and 'idealized self' highlights the role of the striving for superiority in the development of neurotic tendencies, as individuals may adopt unrealistic self-images in an attempt to compensate for feelings of inadequacy.
5. The striving for superiority is often seen as a double-edged sword, as it can motivate individuals to achieve great things, but can also lead to unhealthy competition, narcissism, and a lack of empathy for others.

Review Questions

• Explain how the striving for superiority is a central concept in the theories of the Neo-Freudian psychologists.
  • The striving for superiority is a fundamental concept in the theories of the Neo-Freudian psychologists, such as Adler, Erikson, Jung, and Horney. Adler believed that this drive to overcome feelings of inferiority and achieve a sense of mastery is the primary motivator of human behavior. Erikson's theory of psychosocial development emphasizes the importance of resolving the crisis of inferiority versus industry during childhood, which lays the foundation for the individual's later striving for competence and superiority. Jung's concept of the 'will to power' is closely related to the striving for superiority, as he believed that individuals are driven by a desire to assert their unique individuality and overcome their limitations. Horney's theory of the 'real self' and 'idealized self' highlights how the striving for superiority can lead to the development of neurotic tendencies, as individuals may adopt unrealistic self-images in an attempt to compensate for feelings of inadequacy.
• Analyze the potential benefits and drawbacks of the striving for superiority as described by the Neo-Freudian psychologists.
  • The Neo-Freudian psychologists recognized that the striving for superiority can have both positive and negative consequences. On the positive side, this drive can motivate individuals to overcome their limitations, develop their skills and talents, and achieve a sense of mastery and self-actualization. It can push people to reach their full potential and make significant contributions to society. However, the striving for superiority can also lead to unhealthy competition, narcissism, and a lack of empathy for others. Individuals may become overly focused on outperforming and dominating others, rather than on their own personal growth and development. The idealized self-image that Horney described can also lead to unrealistic expectations and a disconnect from one's true self. Therefore, the Neo-Freudian psychologists emphasized the importance of finding a balance between the striving for superiority and a healthy sense of self-acceptance and compassion for others.
• Evaluate how the striving for superiority may influence an individual's psychological development and well-being, as described by the Neo-Freudian psychologists.
  • The Neo-Freudian psychologists, such as Adler, Erikson, Jung, and Horney, believed that the striving for superiority plays a significant role in an individual's psychological development and overall well-being. Adler's theory suggests that this drive is the primary motivator of human behavior, and that an individual's efforts to overcome feelings of inferiority and achieve a sense of mastery can shape their personality and life choices. Erikson's theory of psychosocial development highlights the importance of resolving the crisis of inferiority versus industry during childhood, as this lays the foundation for the individual's later striving for competence and superiority. Jung's concept of the 'will to power' emphasizes the role of the striving for superiority in an individual's quest to assert their unique identity and overcome their limitations. Horney's theory of the 'real self' and 'idealized self' suggests that an unhealthy striving for superiority can lead to the development of neurotic tendencies and a disconnect from one's true self. Overall, the Neo-Freudian psychologists recognized that the striving for superiority can be a powerful motivator, but that it must be balanced with self-acceptance, empathy, and a focus on personal growth and development in order to promote psychological well-being.

Related terms

Inferiority Complex:

A psychological condition in which an individual feels inadequate or inferior, often leading to overcompensation or striving for superiority.

Compensation: The process of trying to overcome feelings of inferiority by developing skills or abilities in another area to achieve a sense of mastery and worth.

Self-Actualization:

The highest level of personal growth and fulfillment, where an individual realizes their full potential and achieves a sense of purpose and meaning.