Alfred Adler

Alfred Adler (February 7, 1870 – May 28, 1937) was an Austrian medical doctor, psychiatrist, and psychotherapist who founded Individual Psychology, one of the three major schools of depth psychology alongside Freudianism and Jungian analysis. Born in Vienna, Adler initially practiced general medicine before becoming interested in psychiatry and psychology. He emphasized holistic understanding of individuals within their social context, rejecting Freud's deterministic approach. Adler introduced revolutionary concepts including inferiority complex, superiority striving, birth order effects, and the importance of social interest and belonging. His theories emphasized encouragement over praise, democratic parenting, and the development of courage and responsibility. Though overshadowed by Freud during his lifetime, Adler's ideas profoundly influenced modern education, parenting philosophies, and psychotherapy. His work anticipated humanistic and cognitive-behavioral psychology, and his emphasis on social belonging remains central to contemporary mental health understanding. Adler emigrated to the United States in 1935, where he continued teaching and writing until his death.