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What is an inferiority complex? -

An inferiority complex is an overwhelming feeling of inadequacy. People suffering from this psychological condition may experience chronic self-doubt, have low self-esteem, and feel insecure about themselves.

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A struggle to stay positive -

With an inferiority complex in place, people struggle to feel positive about themselves.

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A deficient outlook -

Furthermore, they regard themselves as in some way deficient to others. Indeed, all other people appear superior.

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Withdrawn and antisocial -

Someone with an inferiority complex quite often feels the need to back off from social situations, in fact to the point of becoming so withdrawn that they rarely interact with others.

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Masking insecurity -

An inferiority complex can also present itself by the sufferer overcompensating for or masking insecurity by being overly competitive, aggressive, or arrogant.

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Superiority complex -

They will quite often find fault in others, and have trouble admitting their own mistakes—classic symptoms ironically related to the inverse superiority complex, typically an exaggerated opinion of one's own abilities and achievements.

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Effect on mental and physical health -

This intense feeling of inadequacy and insecurity can deepen to the point of depression. The result is that the individual is likely to experience a range of unwanted mental and physical health effects.

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What's the answer? -

Most of us suffer a degree of self-doubt at some point in our lives. However, it's an often highly situational or occasional experience. We deal with it and move on, using our strength and motivation to solve the underlying cause of the problem, and usually turning to friends and family for support while doing so. But why can't some individuals do the same? For answers, we need to look at the causes of an inferiority complex.

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Causes of an inferiority complex -

A feeling of inferiority may be brought about by upbringing as a child. For example, being consistently compared unfavorably to a sibling.

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Disadvantaged family -

Children from disadvantaged families may show higher rates of low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy in their environment.

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Physical or mental limitations -

Physical or mental limitations manifested at a young age, for example when a child is shorter than average or is of limited intellectual capacity, can nurture a feeling of inferiority later in life.

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Trouble at home -

An inferiority complex can also be sparked by the impact of parenting styles and societal values. A youngster who becomes a target of a parent's stress, irritability, dejection, or anxiety can develop fear, doubt, and uncertainty as a result.

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Impact of family issues -

If these family issues aren't identified and resolved, a child may err toward poor self-esteem, trouble building confidence, and depression.

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Problems into adulthood -

Similarly, trauma and abuse experienced by a child can amplify feelings of inadequacy that can be carried into adulthood in unhealthy ways.

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Effects of negative social media -

According to the San Francisco-based Social Media Victims Law Center (SMVLC), the effects of social media and heavy online use can have negative long-term impact on teenagers' mental health and overall well-being.

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Impact on teenagers -

While social media can have many positive effects, studies reviewed by SMVLC pinpoint, for example, Facebook "as a social networking site that attracts adolescents with lower self-esteem yet worsens the problem as the teens engage in higher levels of social comparison. This can create an even lower, skewed self-image."

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Multiple factors to blame -

Similarly, Medical News Today quotes the results of research undertaken in 2022 using social media data, and published by the National Library of Medicine, which found that feelings of inferiority might stem from multiple factors, including: personal experiences, particularly negative ones; personality traits; abilities, including personal and professional; and social interaction.

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Contributory factors -

The study concludes that "factors such as childhood and adult experiences, social disadvantages, physical challenges, and cultural messages may all contribute to feelings of inferiority."

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Signs of an inferiority complex -

Signs of an inferiority complex besides those already mentioned include a tendency to over-analyze compliments and criticisms.

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Seeking personal endorsement -

Persistently looking for validation and praise from others is indicative of an inferiority complex.

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Left out of the crowd -

Pulling away from family, friends, and colleagues, especially in social situations, is another indicator that someone is probably suffering from an inferiority complex.

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Shutting down -

Repetitively focusing on thoughts that are upsetting and withdrawing or shutting down, feelings of shame, guilt, embarrassment, or an inward sense of defeat are common characteristics of an individual with an inferiority complex.

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Facing a brick wall -

People with the complex invariably experience trouble reaching goals at work. Over time, their perceived value will diminish to themselves and the organization. Ultimately they will be passed over for raises and promotions.

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Worst-case scenario -

A person with an inferiority complex nearly always assumes the worst in themselves, others, and situations.

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This is not a mental health disorder -

It's important to note that an inferiority complex is not a diagnosable mental health disorder. Instead, clinicians use low self-esteem as one possible symptom when they assess for other psychological problems. These include anxiety disorders and depressive disorders.

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Treatment and management -

Can an inferiority complex be overcome? The answer is yes. But it will take time. In the first instance, treatment will involve psychotherapy.

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Cognitive behavioral therapy -

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a talking therapy that can help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave. Many forms of talk therapy are also effective in helping people manage depression and anxiety disorders.

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Psychodynamic therapy -

Psychodynamic therapy aims to help people deal with negative feelings and behaviors rooted in past experiences. It focuses on unconscious processes as they are manifested in the client's present behavior.

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Supportive therapy -

Supportive therapy is often employed to treat those with an inferiority complex. It primarily focuses on providing emotional support, encouragement, and validation during difficult life circumstances or psychological challenges, thus improving social functioning.

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How to overcome an inferiority complex -

Besides seeking psychotherapy, there are other ways of unburdening yourself of this damaging and debilitating complex.

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Positive affirmations -

Begin by adopting positive affirmations. This is all about kicking the negative into touch by telling yourself how valuable, talented, etc. you are. Practice these declarations of intent in front of a mirror. It's a great way to start the day!

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Journaling -

Journaling is a proven method of addressing a mental health concern. Jot down daily true feelings about yourself. By doing so, you can identify underlying negative traits while internalizing more positive ideas.

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Hang out with the right crowd -

Banishing an inferiority complex is also about selecting your friends wisely and asking for support when necessary.

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Life-changing moment -

By recognizing the symptoms of the complex, confiding in trusted supports, and seeking professional treatment as needed, it is possible to jumpstart a powerful change in how you perceive yourself.

Sources: (WebMD) (American Psychological Association) (SMVLC) (Medical News Today) (National Library of Medicine) (Psychology Today)

See also: How to embrace change in your life

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