On September 19th, we will begin a discussion of The Collected Clinical Works of Alfred Adler, Volume 6, Chapters XVI & XVII. The following chapter summaries were prepared by Manu Jaaskelainen.
Ch. XVI
Individual Psychology and the Theory of Neurosis (1929) is paper on a recurrent theme in Adler's writings. In this version, a particular emphasis is given to social feeling. "The physical weakness of the individual in the face of nature, the limitations of life on this earth, actually require a sense of community to maintain life, and to force the development of a civilization and an organized division of labor. ... It probably is the weakness and inferiority of mankind in general, man's knowledge of death and threatening dangers, which produce social interest as an unavoidable complement and to provide relief." Psychological failures, like neurosis, are results of the inability to cooperate. Adler does not accept the trauma-theory. "All personal experiences have been assimilated early on by the fixed style of life." This life style is a unified whole, always characteristic to the individual. Neither does Adler accept the contrast of conscious and unconscious. The unconscious that Freud found, is a misguided striving for power.
Ch. XVII
A Consultation (1929) is a case study. The paper itself is a real consultation between Adler and one Dr. L, and the report, the remarks, and the explanations are presented as recorded by a stenographer. About half of the chapter consists of a discussion with the mother. The paper provides a unique look at Adler's office; the report is presented, sentence by sentence, and Adler interprets it, sentence by sentence. Just a short example:
"The older brother is very handsome. He once had to repeat first grade in school, but now learns very well, is serious and mature."
When we hear of two brothers where the older has developed well and cannot be overtaken, the younger brother most of the time is a problem. If the younger advances well and comes close to the older and threatens the older's status, the older brother becomes a problem. That experience has been confirmed in this case. The older brother probably does not fail to point out to the younger brother that he is in remedial school."
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