Who developed the theory of personality known as "Individual Psychology"?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Alfred Adler
Alfred Adler’s theory is known as individual psychology. Its basic assumption is that human behaviour is purposeful and goal-directed, and that every individual suffers from feelings of inadequacy and guilt (an inferiority complex) from childhood, which must be overcome for optimal personality development.
Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2026 on 29-05-2026 (Slot 2).
NCERT (2025-26): “Karen Horney : Optimism … Horney was another disciple of Freud who developed a theory that deviated from basic Freudian principles. She adopted a more optimistic view of human life with emphasis on human growth and self-actualisation. Horney’s major contribution lies in her challenge to Freud’s treatment of women as inferior.…” “Alfred Adler : Lifestyle and Social Interest … Adler’s theory is known as individual psychology. His basic assumption is that human behaviour is purposeful and goal-directed. Each one of us has the capacity to choose and create. Our personal goals are the sources of our motivation. The goals that provide us with security and help us in overcoming the feelings of inadequacy are important in our personality development. In Adler’s view, every individual suffers from the feelings of inadequacy and guilt, i.e. inferiority complex, which arise from childhood. Overcoming this complex is essential for optimal personality development.…” |