“We must interpret a bad temper as a sign of inferiority.”
- February 7, 1870 – May 28, 1937
- Austrian
- Psychotherapist, Medical Doctor, Founder of Individual Psychology
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Quote
“We must interpret a bad temper as a sign of inferiority.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Alfred Adler’s view that emotional outbursts—particularly anger or a bad temper—are often not signs of strength, but of psychological vulnerability. Rather than seeing temper as an inherent personality flaw or an isolated reaction, Adler interprets it as a compensatory behavior, rooted in a feeling of inferiority. The individual who feels weak, overlooked, or inadequate may use anger as a means of asserting control, demanding attention, or masking insecurity.
In Adlerian psychology, such behavior is classified among safeguarding tendencies—mechanisms that individuals use to protect their fragile self-esteem. A person who feels powerless may become irritable or aggressive when challenged, not because of justified outrage, but because they lack the confidence or emotional tools to respond more constructively. The temper becomes a shield against perceived humiliation or failure, often damaging relationships in the process.
This understanding remains valuable in modern psychology and interpersonal dynamics. For instance, a student who lashes out at a teacher, or a colleague who reacts angrily to feedback, may be experiencing threats to their self-worth, not simply being “difficult.” Adler’s quote encourages us to look beyond the surface of anger and see it as a signal of internal struggle, inviting compassion, boundaries, and support rather than judgment or retaliation.
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