Everything you want to know about feeling inferior

What is the Feeling of Inferiority?

Psychologist Alfred Adler defined the feeling of inferiority as: “The prevailing and recurring personal feeling of inadequacy, weakness, and insecurity.” It is a negative self-image and a constant feeling of frustration towards oneself, struggling to adapt due to a real or imagined psychological or physical deficiency, and continuous thinking that you are not good enough, comparing your achievements and happiness to others and belittling them, which negatively affects your mental health and social life.

Types of Inferiority Feelings

There are two types of inferiority feelings:

1. Primary Inferiority: This type starts from childhood and is caused by parents who continuously compare their child to others and reprimand them for being weak or different. Since the child is sensitive at this stage and deeply affected by the parents’ opinions, this treatment creates a lasting sense of inferiority.
2. Secondary Inferiority: This type refers to a person’s inability to reach their goals due to perceived weaknesses, causing low self-esteem and a belief that they cannot establish relationships within their community.

Signs of Inferiority Complex

The main signs of inferiority complex include:

1. Depression, bad mood, and lack of desire to change.
2. Continuous anxiety.
3. Low voice tone.
4. Feeling guilty about choices and actions.
5. Being easily and quickly affected by criticism.
6. Belittling achievements and positive traits.
7. Inability to maintain long-term relationships.
8. Seeking attention through aggression or pretending to be ill.

Causes of Inferiority Feelings

Several factors cause feelings of inferiority, mainly:

1. Genetics.
2. Life experiences.
3. History of trauma, abuse, stress, depression, and anxiety.
4. Suffering from psychological disorders such as avoidant or borderline personality disorder.

Effects of Inferiority Feelings

Inferiority significantly impacts daily life. The main effects include:

1. Inability to work or study properly.
2. Fulfilling the partner’s desires and sacrificing one’s own needs, desires, and goals.
3. Feeling defeated and self-hatred.
4. Addiction.
5. Suicidal thoughts.

Overcoming Feelings of Inferiority

Overcoming feelings of inferiority requires strong genuine will, and the following points may also help:

1. Write Your Notes: Writing down triggers behind your inferiority feelings may help you overcome them. Analyze situations that generate these feelings and identify recurring patterns to manage them.
2. Remember Your Positive Traits: Constantly reminding yourself of your positive qualities helps build self-confidence and eliminates these feelings.

If feelings of inferiority dominate your life and prevent your progress and development, it is best to consult a specialist for assistance.