Assignment 3: Political Personalities We Have Seen This Week

Assignment 3 Political Personalitiesas We Have Seen This Week When Lo

Choose a social or political leader (current or past) to examine through an Adlerian framework of superiority striving and style of life. Research the leader’s motivation behind their career choices, perceived inferiority or weaknesses, and how they obtained their level of superiority striving. Analyze their goals, style of life, actions taken to overcome inferiority, whether they acted out of social interest or personal gain, and the long-term outcomes of their striving. Apply Adler’s theory of birth order to the personality of the leader. Format your paper in double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font, with normal one-inch margins. Include a title page with a running head, an abstract, and a reference page. Write a 2–3-page paper in Word format, citing sources according to APA standards.

Paper For Above instruction

In analyzing political and social leaders through the lens of Adlerian psychology, it becomes essential to understand the concepts of superiority striving, style of life, and birth order. These elements shed light on the motivations, behaviors, and personality development of influential figures. For this paper, I will examine Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR), the 32nd President of the United States, as a prime example of a leader whose life and actions can be effectively analyzed through Adlerian theory.

Superiority Striving and Motivation

According to Adler, superiority striving is a fundamental human drive rooted in feelings of inferiority experienced during childhood. FDR's childhood was marked by significant health challenges, notably his contraction of polio in 1921, which resulted in permanent paralysis of his legs. These physical weaknesses likely fostered feelings of inferiority. However, instead of succumbingly accepting these limitations, Roosevelt's superiority striving was fueled by a desire to regain control, achieve greatness, and serve the nation. His determination to overcome his physical disability and to lead a nation facing economic turmoil and global conflict exemplifies Adler’s concept that individuals strive for superiority not merely for personal gain but for societal contribution.

Style of Life and Goals

Roosevelt's style of life was characterized by resilience and an unwavering commitment to public service. His primary goal was to restore stability and hope to a nation suffering from the Great Depression and later, to lead during World War II. His actions—such as implementing the New Deal policies, establishing Social Security, and guiding the Allied war effort—embody his unique style of life aimed at achieving social interest and societal improvement. Roosevelt personally took steps to overcome his perceived inferiority by engaging actively in politics and demonstrating leadership qualities that inspired many. His actions suggested that his striving was driven by social interest, seeking not only personal success but also the betterment of society as a whole.

Long-term Outcomes

Roosevelt's long-term outcome of his superiority striving was remarkably positive in terms of societal impact. His leadership transformed American politics and social policies, and his resilience in the face of adversity became a symbol of hope. Despite criticisms, his policies laid a foundation for the modern welfare state and demonstrated the power of leadership motivated by social interest. However, some argue that his style of advocacy also fostered dependency culture and federal overreach, illustrating that superiority striving can have complex outcomes.

Application of Birth Order Theory

Adler believed that birth order influences personality development and style of life. Roosevelt was the second of four children, which placed him in the middle position. As a middle child, he might have experienced a tendency toward seeking attention and establishing a unique identity to stand out within his family. This birth order position could have contributed to his strong drive for achievement and leadership. His early life included a nurturing family environment, but also the pressure to excel and differentiate himself, reinforcing his motivation to attain success and social recognition. This aligns with Adler's view that middle children often develop a strong drive for achievement and social contribution as they navigate familial roles.

Conclusion

Examining Franklin D. Roosevelt through Adlerian psychology reveals that his motivation for leadership was shaped by childhood health struggles, which fostered feelings of inferiority and a desire to achieve superiority for societal good. His style of life exemplified resilience, social interest, and a pursuit of goals that aimed to help others. His birth order contributed to his drive for distinction and achievement. Roosevelt's life underscores the Adlerian perspective that individual differences in personality are rooted in early childhood experiences, family dynamics, and personal striving for significance, ultimately influencing their long-term societal impact.

References

• Corey, G. (2017). Theory and Practice of Counselling and Psychotherapy (10th ed.). Cengage Learning.