An Integrated Approach of Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory and Adlerian Counseling

Abstract

This study aims to integrate Erikson’s psychosocial theory and Adler’s individual psychology. Adler and Erikson have complimentary descriptions of personality and they both view mankind as a social being in nature, having a desire to belong and motivated for significance in their social environment in order to handle with inferiority. The integration also suggests that four main areas should be taken in consideration during the counseling process: work, friendship, sexual love, and optimism. This integration concerned with relatively normal individuals who function properly in most situations but are troubled by one or two specific concerns and the focus is on the reality and the present. Resolving unconscious conflicts from the client's past life is not the goal of this orientation, but helping client with today's situation. Ideological identity is another important aspect of this integration which includes domains of occupation, religion, politics, and philosophical lifestyle.

Keywords

• Adler,Erikson,multicultural counseling,ego psychology

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