National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) Practice Exam

According to Adlerian therapy, happiness and success are largely related to what?

1. Financial security

2. Social connectedness

3. Personal achievements

4. Career advancement

The correct answer is: Social connectedness

In Adlerian therapy, happiness and success are deeply connected to social connectedness. This therapeutic approach emphasizes the importance of community, relationships, and a sense of belonging in an individual's life. Adler believed that humans are inherently social beings, and he posited that the fulfillment of social needs is vital for achieving personal happiness and well-being. The concept of "social interest," or the ability to care for and connect with others, plays a central role in Adlerian psychology. Adler theorized that when individuals are positively connected to their communities and engage in harmonious relationships, they experience a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment. This social connectedness fosters emotional resilience and encourages collaborative efforts, which are essential for achieving personal and collective goals. While the other options—financial security, personal achievements, and career advancement—may contribute to an individual’s overall happiness and success, they are not as foundational to Adlerian thought. In his view, it is the richness of social relationships and the capacity for communal engagement that underpin true well-being, making social connectedness the most pertinent factor according to Adlerian therapy.