Re:Stage Theory in Individual Psychology?

A stage theory would also be inconsistent with the assumptions about the childhood prototype and the formation of the style of life, which is driven by the compelling, compensatory, fictional final goal. These constructs suggest that in many cases, the individual's psychological development may actually stop between the ages of three and five, although his/her physical and intellectual development continues. What unfolds are simply elaborations of the original, unchanged guiding line. It is as if a person becomes fixated on a simplistic, predetermined ideal for future security and significance, no matter how seemingly complex or varied the thinking, feeling or actions become. In these cases, it would probably take a deep therapeutic intervention to dissolve the roadblock and restore a belated course of genuine development.

It is quite fascinating, as a therapist, to uncover the unique early childhood situation, and piece together the specific influences and reactions that fused into a world view, and blueprint for the future. A life course is often plotted without the faintest awareness of realistic possibility, or probable consequences. If sufficient insight and courage can be mobilized in psychotherapy, it is possible to engage in the challenge of discovering and developing one's best self.

Although Adler never referred to "stages" of development, he did use the term "dangerous corners," to identify the changes in a child's or adult's situation, i.e, birth of a sibling, moving, loss of a parent, illness, starting school, choosing a career, marriage, etc. These are tests of cooperation and courage that can result in hesitation or avoidance if the individual is unprepared.

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