Adlerian Theory, Research Paper Example

Choices

The first key concept of Adlerian Theory is view of human nature. Adler believed that humans formed an approach to life within the first six years of life. He felt that humans were motivated by social acceptance, not by sexual urges. When a person behaves or acts a certain way it is goal oriented and purposeful. Consequently, the focus of the therapy should be consciousness, rather than unconsciousness. Adler felt that humans made choices that they had to be responsible for, and that completion and perfection are the leading forces that drive humans to succeed.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle is considered the heart of Adlerian therapy. He believed that one’s lifestyle is unique and that it is used throughout life because it governs the person’s lifestyle. A person’s lifestyle is developed early in life and is influenced by psychosocial and biological factors. He believed that each person is equipped with a cognitive map that helps him/her to interpret and interact with the world.

Holistic

Adler’s Theory of group counseling is centered on long-term goals. Adler referred to these as life goals. The Adlerian Theory focuses on self-determination and consciousness. He believed that people were not the products of fate, but the victims of the choices they made. The Adlerian approach has been called a growth model because Adler believed that one’s destiny is not predetermined, but a process. The Adlerian approach has also been called Individual Psychology because it is based upon a holistic approach. “Thoughts, feelings, beliefs, behavioral patterns, traits and characteristics, convictions, attitudes, and personal creativity are all expressions of the uniqueness of the person and the person’s style of living” (pg. 163).

Social Interest          

Belonging to a community and feeling socialably accepted shapes one’s attitude towards dealing with the world. For example, “Adler noted that we have strong needs to feel united with others and that only when we do so can we act with courage in facing and dealing with life’s problems” (pg. 166)  Birth order and sibling relationship also shapes that attitude. It also provides information about the person’s chosen lifestyle. According to Adler, one’s birth order dictates the profession a person may choose and his/her worldview.

Role of Adlerian Counselor

The counselor plays an active role in the therapeutic effort. Through collaboration with the client, the counselor challenges the client’s beliefs and goals in order to help the client develop new behaviors. Essentially, the counselor serves as a role model.

Stages of Adlerian Counseling

Establishing Relationships

Stage One of Adlerian Therapy seeks to establish a positive working relationship based upon “cooperation, collaboration, egalitarianism, and mutual respect” (pg. 170). Building this relationship is the foundation for a connection between client and counselor. When dealing with mental health patients, much of their progress depends upon if they are trusting and willing to talk to their counselors.

Gathering Information

The Second Stage of Adlerian Therapy is gathering information about the client. Gathering this information may include various tests, medical history, and interviewing family members to gain insight on the client’s mental state. The therapist will observe the client. Clients are often asked to describe early childhood experiences and memories. Adler believes these memories that they share are never random, but significant for a reason.

Interpreting/Setting Goals

The Third Stage of Adlerian Therapy is interpreting and setting goals for the clients. This can be a difficult stage because if the information is misinterpreted, an incorrect diagnosis may be given. Clients should be asked if they agree with the interpretation of the counselor. If the client disagrees, the counselor must be willing to reevaluate the conclusion he/she has come to.

Re-orientation

The final stage of Adlerian Therapy is re-orientation. During this stage, the counselor hopes to change the client’s misconceptions. The client is treated from the inside out; the counselor wants to determine what has motivated misbehavior or misconceptions. Often clients have lived with these misconceptions all their lives and are reluctant to change them. The clients are taught to make a conscience effort to practice the new beliefs in their daily routine.

Application/Cultures

Adlerian Therapy can be used to treat many forms of psychological disorders. Yet, it is most effective on childhood developmental and behavioral problems. These problems are usually stemmed from anxiety and feeling of inferiority. This type of therapy is often used when working with members of minority groups. Adler wanted to create social equality among cultures, minorities, and genders. For example, in Native American culture, spirituality is very important. Health and spirituality are viewed as interconnected. Adlerian therapy focuses on the holistic view of the person by involving the mind, spirit, and body (pg. 180). One important aspect of the Adlerian Theory is the time frame. Clients understand that change can occur in a short period of time.

Therapeutic Techniques/Procedures

Brief therapy is an approach used with Adlerian Therapy. With brief therapy the core characteristics are establishing a quick alliance between client and counselor. The client is expected to be active in therapeutic interventions. Clients are taught to have an optimistic point of view by focusing on the present and future and not dwelling on past issues. The brief therapy consists of five characteristics: “time limitation, focus on desired outcomes, counselor defectiveness, symptoms as solutions, and assignments of behavioral tasks”. The entire therapy program may be completed in as little as six sessions.

Group Counseling in Schools

Group counseling is more often used with school counselors. The benefits of using groups are numerous. According to Sachin& Stephens, 2010), groups give individuals the opportunity to learn from one another, and a chance to generate solutions together. Groups also provide a safe place for emotional release. In a group setting, children can learn that others face similar problems, and this can help to lessen anxiety or fears that they may have, especially in social situations. Groups are also a great place to practice social building skills in an environment that approximates genuine social settings, and a place where children can develop a social network. However, implications that some cautions should be taken are present. Group practice with children and adolescents is different in many respects from group work with adults. Sachin& Stephens, 2010 assert that groups with children need to be structured homogeneously for gender. Sachin& Stephens, 2010 argue that girls and boys in the same group tend not to self-disclose easily and find it difficult to share trust, and become cohesive. Sachin& Stephens, 2010) also believe that groups for elementary aged children should be kept small, and recommend a group size of four to six children. Children are often objective to the idea of being singled out for groups, especially special needs children who already feel stigmatized by their peers.

References

Jain, Sachin; Kioh, Kim; Stephens, Derk. (2010). Group Counseling: Techniques For Teaching Social Skills To Students With Special Needs. Education Journal, 130, 509-512.