Problem 13 - An Introduction to Theories of Personality

Question

A terrorist blows up a building in a hated foreign country. How might Adler explain this behavior?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

In terms of Adler's theory, the terrorist might be trying to compensate for feelings of inferiority, resorting to the destructive behavior of blowing up a building to assert superiority or avenge perceived injustices.

Step 1: Understanding Adler's Theory

Firstly, analyze the key concepts in Adler's theory. He proposed that all humans have feelings of inferiority that stem from childhood, which they strive to overcome. Adler believed that these feelings can lead to superiority striving, where people aim to improve themselves, and they can also lead to feelings of inferiority or superiority complexes. This can manifest as compensatory behavior, where people attempt to compensate for their real or perceived weaknesses.

Step 2: Applying Adler's Theory

Looking at the exercise through the lens of Adler's theory, a possible interpretation of the terrorist's behavior is guided by their perception of their own or their group's inferiority (perceived or real). The act of blowing up a building can be seen as an extreme compensatory behavior, a destructive attempt to assert superiority or avenge perceived injustices.

Step 3: Formulating the Explanation

Finally, put together the understanding of Adler's theory, and how it could be applied to the described behavior. The terrorist, influenced by feelings of inferiority and a superiority complex, might resort to destructive compensatory behavior like blowing up a building to assert superiority or avenge what they perceive as injustice.