I have two discussion questions I need the response to my classmates for:
Discussion 1: Overview: Please complete a 1-2 page response (double spaced) to the following question:How will this particular course, and associated modules help guide/influence your future work as a professional practicing Individual Psychology, as conceptualized by Dr. Adler? In addition, how might you need to adapt your practice of Individual Psychology to address the complex social needs inherent to the 21st Century? This would certainly include challenges specific to Social Justice and Community Connectedness.
Response 1
Hello Class,
This assignment for me, was definitely a favorite. I observe families on a daily basis; so actively seeking those who are not my “clients” brought an odd since of joy.
I had a doctor’s appointment yesterday and witnessed a four-person family. Two parents and two kids appeared to be 8–12. The family chatted in the lobby. The blatant hierarchy inside the family was one of the things about their relationships that stood out the most. The parents assumed a dominant position when making decisions, and the kids were expected to take their lead (Qu, 2022). For instance, the parents decided that the girls were not allowed to take candy from the dish as well as where to sit in the lobby without consulting the kids. Throughout the waiting time, this dynamic persisted, and the kids seemed content in their status as followers.
The gender norms that existed within the household were another finding. The mother seemed to adopt a more caring and supportive stance, while the father assumed a more assertive and authoritative attitude. Their interactions with the kids also demonstrated this, with the mother concentrating on offering consolation and emotional support while the father handled discipline and decision-making. The mother adopted a more democratic stance, while the father adopted a more authoritarian leadership style. The mother spoke very little aside from checking the family in, whereas the father was frequently heard delivering demands and directions. the children appeared to be used to this dynamic as they seemed to gear all questions to dad and when they received the no the youngest went to get hugs and kissed from mom while the oldest just sighed.
These data collectively point to a household that maintains conventional gender norms and hierarchical systems. While some families may find this practical, it’s essential to realize that there are other ways to set up family dynamics that may work better for fostering wholesome relationships and personal development (Oliva, 2021). Adlerian family therapy is an alternative strategy emphasizing the value of equal involvement and respect between family members. Instead of relying on a hierarchical structure, this strategy encourages families to work together to build common goals and decision-making procedures. Adlerian family therapy can assist families in fostering open communication and teamwork, strengthening relationships and improving problem-solving abilities.
References
Used
Oliva, A. A. (2021). A Comparative Review of Behavioral Analytic and Adlerian Conceptualizations of Challenging Behavior in Children with Autism from Caregiver Responses (Doctoral dissertation, Adler University).
Qu, X. (2022). Adlerian identity development from a Classical Adlerian perspective. The Journal of Individual Psychology, 78(1), 145-151.
Response 2
I was observing offenders and how they communicate among Indigenous peoples. They were sitting at the table playing a game called Canasta. They were relaxed and speaking loudly, and one was writing scores. As offender A spoke, you could tell he was trying to tell a joke as his voice got louder and the laugh was uncontrollable. The other offenders playing the game took a few seconds to understand the joke. Offender B acknowledged with a handshake as it was excellent. The inferences I used may be different from what is being stated. I was overseeing how individuals would stand around to see how the game was being played as the group playing acknowledged the peers around them. However, one offender came over, and all the peers suddenly got up and left. I was preoccupied with wondering why? Is the offender’s crime or how the offender acts around them make one feel uncomfortable? It made others feel more aware of personal space as some have disclosed to staff how offender C would touch them by rubbing their back or laughing inappropriately.
How others walked away by understanding the nonverbal cues as to how one can leave a game or move on to a new task. According to Power and Griffiths (2012), the offenders asserted themselves with dominance by being authoritarian by publicly voicing nonverbal communication by walking away from an offender. This style of authoritarian style reinforces the unwanted behaviour of the peer. Using assertiveness skills can lack positive reinforcement by acknowledging the consequences of unwanted behaviour.
Gender guiding lines refer to the societal or cultural expectations and norms surrounding gender roles, behaviours, and identity. They are typically ingrained in a person’s upbringing and influence their understanding of what is considered appropriate or expected for their gender. These guiding lines may come from family, community, media, or other social sources. Role models, on the other hand, are individuals whom a person looks up to and identifies with, often based on shared characteristics or qualities. Role models can significantly impact an individual’s self-perception and provide guidance, inspiration, and a sense of identity. The statement suggests that when a person’s same-sex gender guiding lines (i.e., societal expectations for their gender) and their role models (i.e., individuals they look up to) are in harmony, it can indicate that the individual has a clear understanding of their gender identity and feels comfortable and at ease in their gender expression.
However, it is essential to recognize that gender identity and expression can be complex and can vary among individuals. Not all individuals have role models that align with societal expectations, and not all conform to traditional gender roles. It is crucial to support and respect individuals’ self-identified gender identities, regardless of how they align with societal norms or role models.
Understanding and accepting diverse gender identities and expressions are essential for creating inclusive and supportive environments for everyone. According to Adlerian psychology, gender roles and beliefs about what it means to be a man or woman are influenced by individual and societal factors. Dreikurs emphasized that people develop their ideas about masculinity and femininity based on subjective interpretations and experiences.
Dreikurs (2012) believed that individuals strive for a sense of belonging and significance within their social groups, and this desire for acceptance can influence their understanding of gender roles. For example, societal expectations and cultural norms may shape an individual’s perception of what is “masculine” or “feminine” in each context.
It is important to note that concepts of masculinity and femininity are diverse and can vary across cultures, communities, and individuals. Therefore, it is crucial to approach discussions about gender with sensitivity, respect, and an open mind, acknowledging the complexity and fluidity of gender identities.
While Dreikurs did not provide specific guidelines for gender in social gatherings, his work on understanding individual behaviour and the influence of social dynamics can contribute to creating inclusive and respectful environments where diverse gender identities are valued and affirmed.
References
Dreikurs, R. (1994). Social equality: the challenge of today. Adler School Of Professional Psychology.
Freeman, Freda. 2021. “Day 2 Day Dads Program Help Men Be Better Fathers.” The Triangle Tribune, June 13, 2021.
Family Atmosphere/Family Values | AdlerPedia. (n.d.).
Www.adlerpedia.org
. Retrieved September 15, 2022, from
https://www.adlerpedia.org/concepts/55
Discussion 2: Review this week discussions through the lens of culture – your culture, others’ culture.
Response 1
In this week’s cultural lens, I am looking at Democracy in families and challenges within the Democracy. I should have thought of some things or ways I did not see. I can infer from observations; however, they may not be accurate. I will describe what I saw through the lens of interpersonal relationships with ways of communication.
What do you see that you have not noticed before?
First, looking at communication, I found that those I observed communicated using slang, and handshakes, which outsiders can misinterpret. Though, I found one intriguing way they communicated with peers who were new to the unit. They help the offender get used to the rules of the range in which they reside. Offenders will observe the new offender and slowly state, “Bro, where are you from”? What is your name? This makes me wonder why they interact differently from day to evening. I have the privilege of working with various offenders around interpersonal skills. Some can isolate themselves when arriving or look lost on the unit as many people interact by doing intake assessments, and offenders ask many questions. Hand singles among the population of Indigenous offenders is a form of communication. It can be frustrating among staff and operations with the lack of communication where it breaks down, and the offenders also get frustrated.
I can see how families and society get frustrated with offenders. However, they do not know everyday life in a penitentiary. I was quick to judge offenders prior to my working there. I am no longer afraid, and I see that this is when most offenders are clean and learning to sit with stress, as they cannot use drugs to help cope with difficult situations/
How might a cultural framework change the conversation?
From the cultural framework perspective, emphasizing democratic relationships would identify anxiety, mental illnesses and recovery by coping with the moment. Reinforcing boundaries and what can be shared with others can impact a person’s acknowledgement of building healthy relationships and connecting to family. The lost connection between offender and family needs to change in a social justice aspect. One thing I would like to foster is that some offenders are more afraid of society’s judgment, which can create a socialization cycle of discrimination when released. This population needs to be used from a democratic perspective as it can help with truth and reconciliation among families and those who struggle to share their trauma.
Response 2
In this weeks assignment I will share my cultural lens reflection. Family is considered the heart of Latino culture. This strong sense of family unity is engrained in Latino culture and reflects a commitment to preserve their heritage, language, and traditions. Collaborative family dynamics are an essential aspect of Latino culture that emphasizes the importance of working together to achieve common goals. Moreover, it is common for multiple generations of family members to live together under one roof, emphasizing the value placed on intergenerational collaboration and respect for elders. These values are reflective of the Adlerian theory of social interest, which holds that individuals are inherently connected to others and derive satisfaction from working towards the common good. In Latino families, social interest is often expressed through a strong sense of family loyalty, where members support one another emotionally and financially.
Adlerian theory also highlights the importance of birth order in shaping personality development and family dynamics. In many Latino families, cultural values and norms dictate specific roles and expectations for each family member based on their birth order. For example, the oldest child may be expected to take on a more responsible role in the family, while the youngest may receive more indulgence and attention.
Cultural framework shifts have the potential to transform the conversation surrounding Latino culture, as they allow for diverse understandings of this community and its experiences. From recognizing family dynamics and histories within Latino culture, to challenging systemic oppression and advocating for social justice, these shifts are opening up new avenues for dialogue and change. By embracing these cultural transformations and working to elevate Latino voices and experiences, we can create a better present and future for all members of our shared society. In conclusion latino culture is an exemplar of the importance of family and collaboration in achieving personal growth, maintaining traditions, and strengthening communities.