Inferiority Complex: How To Spot It And How To Fight It Off

Many of you may think that we were born inferior because there was always someone to take care of us when we were little. That is a correct consumption, and we are not going to argue with it. However, when some people overcome inferiority – the others may not be that strong, and it turns into something called an inferiority complex. That is why today we decide to talk about this matter. Very often, fake friends can bring you an inferiority complex. We want to find what it actually is, how you can spot in and of course how you can fight it off. Read on to learn more!

ADVERTISEMENT

Inferiority Complex: What Does It Mean?

Inferiority Complex: What Does It Mean? #relationship #psyсhology

To begin with, it should be pointed out what is an inferiority complex. The term was suggested by French psychologist Alfred Adler. According to his inferiority complex definition, all of us are born with. However, as we grow out, we tend to overcome this feeling of inferiority. Some people may use it as motivation to get better, and they improve themselves continually.

Nevertheless, there is another side of the coin. Not all people can use inferiority to better themselves, on the contrary. Due to many factors, that feeling of inferiority may lead to inexplicable anxiety and unwillingness to try anything at all because of the fear of failure.

Now when you are aware of the inferiority complex meaning it is time we have a closer look at what causes it as well as its symptoms.

ADVERTISEMENT

Causes Of Low Self-Esteem

Causes Of Low Self-Esteem #relationship #psyсhology

After we figured what is inferiority complex it is necessary to be aware of factors that may result in it. Very often, everything starts from childhood. In most cases, people who suffer from inferiority complex were pressured when they were kids either by a parent or by peers. The fact is that if parents set high goals and the child is unable to achieve them and as a result, there is mockery or punishments this affects kid’s perception significantly. Issues and mental traumas like that can be carried on to the adult life, and there is nothing you can do but seek professional help to help you deal with them.

If you wonder what symptoms to look for – keep reading on!

Inferiority Complex “Symptoms”

Inferiority Complex Symptoms #relationship #psyсhology
Sensitivity to opinions

It is natural to seek approval from people close to you. But you shouldn’t perceive other’s opinions in a literal way and get upset if someone thinks that something you do is not good enough. In case, what people think of you may interfere with your every action – this may be the sign of inferiority complex.

Criticism is unacceptable

The fact is that constructive criticism is natural but if you are unable to face it no matter what, then there may be an issue there.

All about the flattery

For people who suffer from inferiority complex, it is essential to hear flattery from everywhere. If you do not get an appraisal, you feel unworthy in general. That is another classic sign of inferiority complex.

Social withdrawal

The fact is that if you are afraid of other’s opinions, you try to distance yourself from society. This defines the complex as well.

Constant comparison

If you keep thinking on a daily basis that anyone around you is better than you, this means that you have an issue to deal with. The sooner, the better.

Perfectionism

It is great when everything you do, you do it in the best possible way. However, being a perfectionist in everything may be a sign that there is a problem there and it needs to be taken care of.

The negative effect of social media

We live in the era of social media, and it is natural that it gets in our lives whether we like it or not. However, if it makes you feel bad on a regular basis it may be a sign of inferiority complex as well.

Covering your flaws

Even if there is something wrong – no one is supposed to see it - does it sound like you? Then we have a problem here. The thing is that showing only your best side to others means that you are suffering from the inferiority issue and it should be taken care of as soon as possible.

ADVERTISEMENT

9 Ways To Start Raising Your Self-Esteem

9 Ways To Start Raising Your Self-Esteem #relationship #psyсhology

With everything mentioned above, it leaves us with the question of how to overcome inferiority complex? Very often, it may seem that overcoming inferiority complex on your own is impossible, however it is still worth a try. All you need to do is to follow these few steps.

Dealing with the past

The truth is that no matter the issue – you need to figure out where it comes from. Inferiority complex is not the exception. You need to look as far back as you have to, to face the traumas that affected you in the past. When you know what they are, you need to understand them and let them go.

Be kind to yourself

The fact is that in most cases people with this complex tend to think low of themselves all the time. That is why the trick is to be kind to yourself. It is essential that you understand that you are not perfect and no one is, after that you need to accept this truth.

People around you

People who surround you are often the ones that influence you the most. That is why if you feel that there is a toxic relation you are a part of – you need to cut it off as soon as possible to become whole again; even if it is your family member, friend or even a partner.

The art of “silence”

You need to learn to value yourself. What is more, you need to be able to say ‘no’ when you want to. There is no need to do something you do not like just to please the others.

Being more assertive

We know that being brave is not the easiest thing to do, but you need to stop fearing that you are going to fail all the time. Once you do so, you will realize that it was not that difficult after all.

Recognize your strength

In most cases, we pay attention to the features that we do not possess. However, they do not define us, do they? That is why it is essential that you point out your positive features and memorize them.

Talk to yourself

This may sound weird but in order to overcome the inferiority complex, it is important that you talk to yourself. Learn to encourage yourself from the inside, and you will feel how things are changing for better in no time.

Embrace your differences

You do not need to be like everyone else. You are unique, and you need to remember and accept it.

Let go of unreasonable expectations

There is no way that you can control everything in this life. That is why it is best to let go of things that are not under your control.

Should You Ask For Help?

Should You Ask For Help #relationship #psyсhology

Not all people feel comfortable when it comes to seeking professional help. However, in times when you can’t deal with an inferiority complex on your own that is the best option you should consider. There are different ways to do so. Read on to learn more.

ADVERTISEMENT

Support Groups

Some of you may think that support groups are founded for far severe issues than just inferiority complex. However, that is not true. In most cases, support groups are lead by licensed specialists or by people who overcame the issue. This means that you will not only be able to accept the fact that you are not the only one, but you will also be guided to complete recovery.

Therapy

Another way of dealing with inferiority complex professionally is by visiting a therapist. A therapist is a person who will not only listen to your problems but will also come up with a personal way of dealing with the issue. Besides, you can individually schedule your meetings according to your preferences.

Psychotherapist Search Tips

Psychotherapist Search Tips #relationship #psyсhology

If you decide to look for a therapist to help you deal with your inferiority complex issue, you need to keep few things in mind. To begin with, you need to be aware of the fact that there is no one-for-all specialist.

ADVERTISEMENT

What to look for in the specialist?

First of all, you need to figure out whether he or she has any experience of dealing with issues like yours. Besides, the period they have been dealing with an inferiority complex as well as the age group they interacted with matter significantly too.

FAQ

When you settle with your choice, it is essential that you ask your therapist these questions:

  • whether your insurance covers the services
  • how long will it take to go through the treatment procedure
  • whether his or her schedule is compatible with yours
  • what is his or her psychological perspective they adhere to

These simple questions will ensure that you find yourself professional and suitable for your therapist.

Many people very often underestimate the inferiority complex. We think that it deserves a proper review, so that is any of you are to suffer from it you will know what to do precisely after just reading through.

FAQ: Inferiority Complex

Can I have both superiority and inferiority complex?

Superiority and inferiority complexes cannot coexist in the same person, because someone with a superiority complex actually believes they are better than others.

Do Narcissists have an inferiority complex?

When threatened, fragile narcissists usually show grandiosity (also called defensive grandiosity) and feel inadequacy and fear, showing that they oscillate between inferiority and superiority.

Can a narcissist love you?

A habit of self-importance (grandiosity), a persistent desire for admiration and attention combined with a lack of empathy for others describe narcissistic personality disorder (also known as narcissism). A narcissist is not able to truly love you because of his or her lack of empathy.

ADVERTISEMENT