Definition of Superiority Complex
We had a discussion at my parents' house about inferiority and superiority complexes...since I always have to prove I am right, here is the information from Alfred Adler who coined the term:
"As we know, a superiority complex always hides an inferiority complex; it means wanting to appear greater and higher without actually striving for improvement. We find this kind of superiority complex in the daydreams of a poor and weak child, daydreams about being a hero, a conqueror, the richest person, saving others, although he really fears everything. This superiority complex happens if a child suffers from an inferiority complex. However, the striving for superiority does not tolerate a feeling of inferiority; therefore, the inferiority complex must be covered by a superiority complex. Both reflect the same root."
"As we know, a superiority complex always hides an inferiority complex; it means wanting to appear greater and higher without actually striving for improvement. We find this kind of superiority complex in the daydreams of a poor and weak child, daydreams about being a hero, a conqueror, the richest person, saving others, although he really fears everything. This superiority complex happens if a child suffers from an inferiority complex. However, the striving for superiority does not tolerate a feeling of inferiority; therefore, the inferiority complex must be covered by a superiority complex. Both reflect the same root."
Labels: alfred adler, inferiority complex, superiority complex
posted by PsychDoctor at
9:05 AM
5 Comments:
Who's got the superiority complex now?
Interesting, I always wondered why it was always the nerds that seemed to have more confidence to hit on me than the better looking ones, when I was a teen-ager. :0)
interesting, this feels like one of those damned if you do, damned if you don't kind of scenarios LOL
This is very interesting, and goes along with what I always believed. I know people who puff themselves up and brag about themselves, but I could always see that down deep they felt inferior, and were just trying to appear superior to make themselves feel better.
HMMMMM - YOU WIN
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