Chapter 4: Individual Psychology

Alfred Adler, the creator of Individual Psychology, believed that humans have an innate tendency to strive for perfection and tend to be motivated by behavior. He said that social interest and social interaction is needed but Adler realizes that this can create the tendencies to feel inferiority between people. Adler's theory views social interest and social interaction as an influence on the psychological world of the individual. Adler liked to consider the individual psychology theory as holistic and looked at the individual from all different views to completely understand what led people to be the way they are.

As a student affairs practitioner, Individual psychology would come into play when first establishing a relationship with the student. This would help grow trust and confidence with the student as well as help collaborate and understand that students lifestyle to become familiar with what is "normal" for them. From these observations and conversations between myself and the student it would help me generate insight and facilitate and understanding of the students life. By accepting the student he/she would feel more comfortable talking to me and discussing the students life and be able to give him feedback and encouragement to strive beyond that and pursue those goals.

Video: Child Centering
This video depicts a therapist and child establishing a relationship through molding clay. The student explains himself through the molding of the clay. The therapist asks the child different questions that evoke emotions within the child and provides the therapist with insights towards the child's feelings and family structure.