Is inferiority complex a mental disorder?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

What are the signs of having an inferiority complex? What is it? Why do some people have it? What are some signs someone may have an inferiority complex?

Answered by Mehwish Mursaleen

Education:

MSc

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mehwish Mursaleen is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in Psychotherapy and Psychological Assessment. She is dedicated to understanding emotional, behavioral, and cognitive concerns, offering evidence-based interventions for holistic mental well-being. With expertise in therapy and assessment, she provides personalized care to help individuals navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve psychological balance in their personal and professional lives.

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Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Inferiority or superiority complex is a term derived from a psychoanalytic perspective in psychology. It is an underlying feeling in a person that one is inferior to others and is inadequate to flourish in life areas.

Inferiority complex is developed in people who have negative past experiences such as those who faced criticisms during their childhood from immediate family members, from peers, friends, or other people around in their social circle. Another factor could be the negative thinking style such as those having a personality trait of neuroticism may extract negativity from their environment which may lead to an inferiority complex.

There are some signs that indicate someone might have an inferiority complex which includes extremely submissive behavior, lack of self-confidence, people-pleasing behaviors, arrogant attitude, show off regarding their possessions, authoritative behavior at inappropriate places where an individual is not expected to behave in such a way. Such individuals communication and behavior let you feel that they think negatively about people around them for instance other people always try to make one inferior.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Vinodhini J.
Published At January 4, 2020
Reviewed At January 4, 2020

Education:

MSc

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mehwish Mursaleen is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in Psychotherapy and Psychological Assessment. She is dedicated to understanding emotional, behavioral, and cognitive concerns, offering evidence-based interventions for holistic mental well-being. With expertise in therapy and assessment, she provides personalized care to help individuals navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve psychological balance in their personal and professional lives.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vinodhini J. is a Dental Surgeon with extensive years of clinical experience. She specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and oral health issues, including restorative, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. With a patient-centered approach, she focuses on maintaining oral health, alleviating discomfort, and enhancing smiles. Her expertise ensures comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s dental needs and overall wellbeing.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Mehwish Mursaleen
Mehwish Mursaleen

Psychologist/ Counselor

Education:

MSc

Professional Bio:

Dr. Mehwish Mursaleen is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in Psychotherapy and Psychological Assessment. She is dedicated to understanding emotional, behavioral, and cognitive concerns, offering evidence-based interventions for holistic mental well-being. With expertise in therapy and assessment, she provides personalized care to help individuals navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve psychological balance in their personal and professional lives.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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