Apply Adler’s theory to Ruth’s life. Specifically, discuss her striving for success and style of life. Compare Adler’s theory to Bandura’s.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Adler suggested that diseased organs or other types of physical deformities (organ dialect) are one source of feelings of inferiority. It is obvious that Ruth felt inferior because of her loss of sight. As the case states, she wanted to be considered a “normal” child and she prided herself on fooling people into believing that she could see, as was the case with the dentist. These feelings of inferiority led her to strive for success, i.e., “not stand out from others.” Although her earliest memory is not specifically stated, the style of life she seemed to choose to do this was a matter of living her life as a sighted person would.
Adler’s theory is different than Bandura’s in emphasis. Adler’s theory is more psychodynamically oriented and emphasizes the uniqueness of the individual whereas Bandura’s theory is more cognitive. Both theories, however, do discuss the influence of social factors in personality: Bandura’s through his discussion of observational learning and Adler’s through his discussion of social interest.