inferiority complex

In psychology, a complex or cluster of repressed fears, described by Alfred Adler, based on physical inferiority. The term is popularly used to describe general feelings of inferiority and the overcompensation that often ensues.

Adler described the complex as arising from the perceived inferiority of an organ or part of the body and leading to feelings of general inferiority. He believed that everyone suffered from inferiority feelings and that the desire or determination to relieve them determined people's behaviour. Failure to deal with them could lead to neurotic symptoms.