Inferiority complex has been defined as a lack of self-worth, doubt, and uncertainty about oneself and feelings of not measuring up to standard. It is a sign of low self-esteem.
It is possible for an individual to feel this way without even knowing it. While the emotions are often subconscious, it often compels its victims to overcompensate in their performance. This can either take the form of outstanding performance or an anti-social ethic. This feeling is very common among teenagers.
Teenagers who are victims of inferiority complex may either exhibit it in their excellent performance in academic activities or may become antisocial and may even become a danger to themselves. The greater the feeling of inferiority that has been experienced, the more powerful the urge and the more violent the emotional agitation.” – Alfred Adler
Teenagers fall victim of inferiority complex for various reasons; it may be hereditary, it may be an after effect of being bullied by a student in the same school, or may even be because of an emotional trauma.
Some signs of inferiority complex may include the following;
- Heightened Sensitivity to Other People’s Opinions
- Social Withdrawal
- Fault Finding
- Place Own Needs Last
- Crave For Flattery
- Performance Anxiety
- Procrastination
The healing process for teenagers with inferiority complex should start internally and this can’t be achieved without the help of a guardian who will identify the cause of the problem and profer solutions; A guardian could be the parent or the teacher. After the child become aware of what is behind his/her emotional disruptions and outward behavior, and through constant reiteration of the fact that he/she is as good as everybody else, the child will eventually let go of the thought of “not being good enough” to knowing him/herself as being enough.
