Final Answer:
People develop maladjusted or disordered behavior, according to Adler, due to feelings of inferiority and the pursuit of exaggerated superiority to compensate for perceived inadequacies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Adler, a prominent psychologist, posited that maladjusted or disordered behavior stems from an individual's fundamental sense of inferiority. This sense of inferiority, often rooted in early experiences, creates a desire to overcome perceived shortcomings. To compensate, individuals may adopt maladaptive behaviors and strive for exaggerated superiority in various aspects of their lives. This pursuit of superiority becomes a coping mechanism, attempting to mask the underlying feelings of inadequacy. The development of maladjusted behavior is thus a result of the ongoing struggle to manage and alleviate these inferiority feelings through external displays of superiority.
Adler emphasized the importance of social factors, such as family dynamics and societal influences, in shaping an individual's sense of inferiority. These early experiences contribute significantly to the formation of a person's worldview and behavioral patterns. Maladjusted behavior, therefore, can be seen as a misguided attempt to gain recognition, validation, and a sense of significance in the face of perceived inadequacies. By understanding and addressing these underlying feelings of inferiority, individuals may be better equipped to foster healthier, more adaptive behaviors.