Adlerian Psychology is built on five fundamental assumptions that aim to capture the depth and richness of human experience. These concepts are not isolated theories; they interweave and complement each other, providing a multidimensional framework for understanding human behavior and emotion. This article thoroughly explores Adler’s five key assumptions and examines their relevance to our lives today. By the end, your understanding of yourself and others may deepen—and you’ll discover practical ways to apply these ideas to daily life.
- 1 Living Toward the Future: The Teleological Perspective
- 2 Living Through Connection: The Social Interest Perspective
- 3 How We Perceive the World: The Fictionalism Perspective
- 4 Human Beings as Wholes: The Holism Perspective
- 5 Shaping Life Through Choice: The Agency Perspective
- 6 Important Notes: These Five Assumptions Are Not for Judgment
Living Toward the Future: The Teleological Perspective
One hallmark of Adlerian Psychology is its belief that people are not merely shaped by their past. While acknowledging past influences, Adler emphasized that a person’s actions are directed by future goals.
For example, someone who avoids challenges may not be controlled by past failures, but rather by a goal of avoiding embarrassment or loss of confidence.
From this teleological perspective, we recognize the power to choose actions toward a better future, instead of being trapped by past events. Take a moment—what future goals might be shaping your recent actions?
Living Through Connection: The Social Interest Perspective
From birth, people exist within networks of relationships—family, communities, society. Adler placed immense importance on this social nature, calling it the "Social Interest Perspective."
If someone shows a loss of motivation or hostility at work, Adlerian Psychology suggests looking beyond personality, and instead considering disconnection from others as a contributing factor.
Problems often arise from loneliness or distorted relationships—and healing starts with restoring connection. Your current struggles, too, may offer clues hidden in your relationships with others.
How We Perceive the World: The Fictionalism Perspective
Fictionalism proposes that the reality we experience is subjectively interpreted and meaning-laden.
The same mistake can be seen by one person as a chance for growth, and by another as proof of personal failure. It’s not the event itself, but the meaning we assign to it that matters.
Adlerian Psychology highlights how changing our interpretation of reality can transform our lives. Is what you see truly "reality"? A small shift in perspective might open new doors.
Human Beings as Wholes: The Holism Perspective
Modern psychology often separates mind from body, reason from emotion. Adler rejected this split, emphasizing human beings as integrated wholes.
For instance, addressing only physical symptoms without considering mental or social stress misses the full picture.
Holism teaches us to understand the "total balance" of a person—not fragmented parts. Could your own physical or emotional issues be better understood with a broader, more integrated view?
Shaping Life Through Choice: The Agency Perspective
The Agency Perspective states that humans are not passive victims of their environment. They set goals, make choices, and actively create their lives.
Even in difficult circumstances, people can carve out their own path—not because of luck, but through intentional decision-making.
How much are you holding the steering wheel of your own life right now? Remember—the chance to take back control is always right in front of you.
Important Notes: These Five Assumptions Are Not for Judgment
The five core assumptions—teleology, social interest, fictionalism, holism, and agency—are not meant to judge people.
They don’t label behavior as good or bad. Instead, they encourage us to understand the reasons and meanings behind every action, setting aside judgment.
By adopting this view, we can understand—and truly accept—both others and ourselves at a deeper level.
The Five Assumptions Are Descriptive, Not Idealistic
Another key point: the five assumptions are not ideals or standards people must live up to.
- Humans act toward future goals (teleology).
- Humans live through relationships (social interest).
- Humans interpret reality subjectively (fictionalism).
- Humans are holistic beings (holism).
- Humans actively choose and shape their lives (agency).
These are simply natural descriptions of humanity—not commands or ideals.
Adlerian Psychology doesn’t try to "change" people; it offers a foundation for understanding human nature and pursuing richer lives based on that understanding.
The True Guiding Light: Community Feeling
So, where should we seek guidance on how to live?
The answer lies not directly in the five assumptions, but in Community Feeling.
Community Feeling means transcending isolation, connecting with others, collaborating with society, and striving toward a better future. Adlerian Psychology proposes a vision of self-realization through belonging and contribution—not through self-centeredness.
Grounded in the five assumptions, living with Community Feeling leads to a fuller, more meaningful life.
*All images used in this article were generated with Midjourney.*
