Adlerian Theory

     

FOUNDER: Alfred Adler (1870-1937)

KEY CONCEPTS:

1. Integrative approach, combining cognitive, constructivist, existential, psycho-dynamic, and system perspectives.
2. View of Human Nature
3. Subjective perception of reality
4. Unity and patterns of human personality
5. Social interest and community feeling
6. Birth order and sibling relationships (Corey, 2009)

GOALS OF THERAPY:

•  Help clients identify and change their mistaken beliefs about, self, others, and life thus to participate more fully in a social world (Corey, 2009).

 TECHNIQUES:

1. Establish a relationship between client and counselor
2. Explore individuals psychological dynamics by understanding individual lifestyles, past and present
3. Encourage self-understanding and insight (motivations that operate a clients life)
4. Reorientation and reeducation (helping clients discover a new and more functional perspectives with encouragement and challenges) (Corey, 2009)

 FIGURES ASSOCIATED WITH THE THEORY:

1. Alfred Adler- he developed a theory that recognizes and stresses the effects of social class, racism, sex, and gender on the behavior of individuals (Corey, 2009).