Individual psychology is the holistic developmental approach proposed by Alfred Adler. Here, both nature and nurture take a back seat to the process of becoming through striving toward individual goals. Differences between the real and ideal selves cause normal feelings of inferiority and, as pointed out by Mosak, can lead to pathological inferiority complex.

Adler saw social influence as key to early development. Growing up, children learn to master their surroundings and seek individual significance, acting on conclusions (healthy or otherwise) got from the family constellation. Therapy can help create the confidence, trust, and love discouraged by deficient early environment.