What determines an individual's style of life according to Alder's Individual Psychology?

An individual's style of life, according to Adler's Individual Psychology, is fundamentally shaped by how they compensate for feelings of inferiority and strive for a sense of superiority. Adler posited that everyone experiences some form of inferiority, which can stem from various sources such as childhood experiences or physical limitations. In response to these feelings of inferiority, individuals develop unique coping mechanisms and strategies that reflect their attempts to overcome these challenges.

This striving for superiority is not merely about becoming better than others but involves a holistic process where the individual seeks personal growth, achievement, and a sense of belonging within a community. The style of life encompasses the values, goals, and attitudes a person develops as they navigate their individual journey, influenced by their perceptions of self and their aspirations.

While genetic predispositions, social norms, and environmental conditions play a role in personality development, they do not specifically define an individual's unique style of life. Instead, it is the adaptive strategies developed in response to feelings of inferiority that create a distinctive pattern of personal behavior and orientation toward life. Thus, the emphasis on the compensation for inferiority and the pursuit of superiority captures the essence of Adler's conception of an individual's style of life.