Revitalizing Alfred Adler: An Echo for Equality

Abstract

The work of Alfred Adler's Individual Psychology arguably applies to contemporary social work practice and education. The tenets of Individual Psychology are reviewed in the context of a historical sketch of Adler's work as a medical doctor, psychoanalyst, and colleague of Freud. His eventual divergence from psychoanalysis to begin his own psychological and education movement which focused on social reform is emphasized. Individual Psychology is examined in detail including original case examples demonstrating his influence on and compatibility with contemporary social work theories. Empirical evidence is provided supporting present-day application of his theory. Adler serves as a much-needed example of a professional who successfully and simultaneously advanced both the micro and macro world of mental health. Adler's contribution deserves to be explicitly included in social work curricula.

Keywords: Adler; Child guidance centers; Equality; Individual psychology; Inferiority complex; Social reform; Society.