A superiority complex leads an individual to have an exaggerated sense of self-worth and self-importance. In some people, it might manifest as obnoxious boastfulness; in others, it might give rise to full-blown delusions of grandeur. Learn more about what a superiority complex is and how to overcome one.
What Is a Superiority Complex?
A superiority complex is a psychological condition in which a person consciously or subconsciously believes they are better than everyone they come into contact with. If you have a superiority complex, you are likely to alienate others, set unrealistic expectations for yourself, and damage your mental health.
Early twentieth-century psychologist Alfred Adler first developed the idea of a superiority complex to elucidate a generalized theory of individual psychology.
Signs of a Superiority Complex
There’s a fine line between healthy self-esteem and corrosive self-aggrandizement. Here are signs you or someone you know might be dealing with a superiority complex:
A Constant Need for Validation
People with superiority complexes believe their friends and coworkers should recognize how incredible they are at all times. Some psychologists believe this need for validation displays how feelings of inadequacy fuel superiority complexes.
A Dismissive Attitude Toward Others
At the same time, people with superiority complexes seek validation and treat others with a sense of disregard. After all, they see others as lesser than themselves. This is part and parcel with the broader sense of entitlement central to the complex as a whole.
An Inflated Sense of Self-Importance
Perhaps the defining personality trait of a superiority complex is possessing an exaggerated opinion of oneself. For instance, someone of this ilk might embellish the nature and extent of their accomplishments or be incapable of understanding how someone doesn’t respect them.
A Penchant for Bragging
People with this complex engage in social comparison. They need to brag to remind others how much better they are. While narcissists might engage in similar behaviour patterns, they often put their innate likability first—perhaps even feigning humility to gain trust and respect. By contrast, those with superiority complexes will always put their egos first, no matter what.
A Propensity for Mood Swings
When someone doesn’t validate a person with a superiority complex, the former can cause the latter to become angry or depressed. This is just one reason this type of complex is bad for someone’s mental health and wellness. It props one’s psyche on a fragile and tenuous conception of self.
What Causes a Superiority Complex?
There are two primary theories for why people develop superiority complexes. First, people develop feelings of superiority as a defence mechanism for their true feelings of inferiority. In other words, their boastfulness and arrogance are signs of overcompensation.
The second theory is more straightforward—people with superiority complexes believe they’re as great as they say they are. In this case, too much positive reinforcement at a young age might have led to an inflated sense of self.
Superiority Complex vs. Inferiority Complex
A superiority complex is a belief that one is superior to others; an inferiority complex is a belief that one is inferior to others. Some psychologists view the definition of superiority complexes as overlapping with that of inferiority complexes. For instance, psychologist Alfred Adler believed feelings of superiority might arise from a person overcompensating for sublimated feelings of inferiority. Others draw a clearer distinction between both complexes.
Superiority Complex vs. Narcissism: How Do They Relate?
People with superiority complexes and people with narcissistic personality disorder share quite a lot in common. They put their needs above others, have overblown views of themselves, and have a moody state of entitlement and arrogance.
The primary difference lies in interpersonal behaviour. People with superiority complexes couldn’t care less about what other people think of them—if people don’t like them, that’s just proof they’re fools. By contrast, narcissists will adapt their personalities and manipulate people to earn trust and affection.
How to Deal With a Superiority Complex
It’s possible to overcome a superiority complex. Here are just a few ways you can arrive at a healthier and more realistic self-image:
Address Underlying Insecurities
Your feelings of superiority may come from a sense of low self-esteem. Ask yourself why you believe you’re better than other people, as well as why you feel the need to persuade them you are. This self-examination can help you get to the root cause of your issues.
Redefine How You See Personal Success
Suppose you recognize your superiority complex comes from a sense of inferiority. Often, feelings of inferiority arise from lofty and unattainable standards. When you reevaluate how you see success, you can develop a more laid-back and easygoing persona in response.
Reevaluate What Self-Esteem Is
Trading in your superiority complex for a healthy sense of high self-esteem can prove helpful in more ways than one. Developing true self-esteem means evaluating your strengths and weaknesses and recognizing the value of others. When you prioritize this over reasserting your dominance and superiority, you’ll become more confident as a result.
Seek Out Psychotherapy
If you notice people alienating you or feel disappointed at how others refuse to recognize your greatness, seek counsel from a trained psychotherapist. They can help you explore your feelings and behaviours, although you might see your entire life differently.
Conclusion
A superiority complex can significantly hinder the formation of healthy relationships and the achievement of genuine self-esteem. Recognizing the signs and understanding the root causes are essential steps towards overcoming this complex. Whether through self-reflection, redefining personal success, or seeking professional help, it’s possible to develop a more balanced and realistic self-view.
FAQs
1. Can a superiority complex be cured?
With self-awareness, professional therapy, and consistent effort, individuals can overcome a superiority complex and develop healthier self-esteem.
2. What is the difference between a superiority complex and healthy self-esteem?
Healthy self-esteem involves a balanced view of oneself, acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses, while a superiority complex involves an inflated sense of self-importance and disregard for others.
3. How does a superiority complex affect relationships?
A superiority complex can lead to alienation and strained relationships because the individual often dismisses others and seeks constant validation.
4. Is a superiority complex a sign of narcissism?
While there are similarities, a superiority complex and narcissism are distinct. Narcissists manipulate others for validation, whereas those with a superiority complex are less concerned with others’ opinions.
5. What role does childhood play in developing a superiority complex?
Childhood experiences, such as excessive praise or lack of balanced feedback, can contribute to developing a superiority complex by fostering an inflated self-view.