Adlerian therapy emphasizes the importance of what in driving behavior?

Adlerian therapy, founded by Alfred Adler, places significant emphasis on the concept of life goals as a driving force behind behavior. According to Adler, individuals are motivated by their aspirations and their desire to achieve specific objectives, which he referred to as "striving for superiority." This striving is not just for personal dominance but encompasses a broader pursuit of significance and belonging within a community. Adler believed that understanding a person’s life goals helps in understanding their actions and behaviors, as these goals provide a framework through which individuals interpret their experiences and challenges.

By focusing on life goals, Adlerian therapy encourages clients to identify their personal objectives and understand how these aspirations influence their daily lives and choices. This perspective is particularly beneficial in therapeutic settings as it guides individuals toward self-improvement and fosters a sense of connection with others, which is fundamental to achieving their goals. This approach contrasts with other theories that might focus on different motivations, such as fear, pleasure, or external influences, thus highlighting the uniqueness of Adlerian thought in understanding behavior through the lens of personal aspirations and social interest.