Superiority Complex
The Complex of Superiority: What You Need to Know
The term superiority complex refers to a set of thoughts, behaviours, and personality traits marked by an inflated sense of self-worth and importance. This state involves feeling entitled and superior to others.
These are some other signs of a superiority complex:
Extremely high self-esteem
Exaggerates abilities
Feels a need to dominate others
Is hostile and dismissive when they perceive others as inferior.
Displays grandiose behaviour (e.g., inflating and boasting about their accomplishments)
Belittling others
A desire to control others
Expecting privileges due to their perceived superior status
Individuals with a superiority complex may not be aware of their beliefs and behaviours. An extremely high opinion of self may lead a person to consider themselves as more intelligent or capable than others.
Sometimes, these people isolate themselves, believing only they can understand their true potential. This behaviour may lead to feelings of loneliness and rejection.
People with a superiority complex may also be perfectionists. Consequently, an individual will hold themselves to extremely high standards. Unfortunately, such expectations can also lead to psychological distress (e.g., mood swings) when not met.
What Causes The Superiority Complex?
Why people develop a superiority complex is not clear. However, psychologists have identified several theories about the complex of superiority. Examples include:
Alfred Adler's notion of individual psychology
Sigmund Freud's concept of narcissism
Melanie Klein's psychoanalytic theories
Carl Jung's archetypes.
Adler believed that individuals' behaviour is driven by their desire for power and superiority. He believed this focus on superiority leads to an aggressive attitude to fulfil a person's desire to feel better than others.
Freud suggested that feelings of superiority can be a form of narcissism. People try to make themselves feel special or superior to compensate for a sense of inferiority. This theory ultimately relates to clinical personality conditions (e.g., narcissistic personality disorder). Psychiatric diagnosis systems describe these diagnoses (e.g., the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM V).
Klein was one of the first to discuss the idea of a superiority complex in working with clients. She argued that individuals develop these complexes as a defense mechanism against feelings of inferiority. The feeling of being superior provides a sense of control over their lives.
Finally, Jung proposed that archetypes can influence our behaviour when dealing with our perceived superiority. An elevated sense of self can lead to behaviours such as pride and arrogance.
It is likely that no one theory fully captures the superiority complex. Instead, psychological, biological, and environmental factors may all contribute. For instance, some believe superiority links to past traumas, difficulties in social interactions, lack of empathy, or early temperament.
People experiencing significant consequences from superiority often require professional help (e.g., Clinical Psychologist) to cope with challenges that arise. Talking therapy can provide tools for managing problematic thinking and behaviours. Intervention can help individuals understand their difficulties and develop positive social behaviours.
Coping With A Superiority Complex: Helpful Tips And Advice
Dealing with someone who has a superiority complex can be challenging.
Despite the challenging behaviour, it's important to remember that the person may not be aware of their problematic thoughts and behaviours. So here are some tips for coping with someone who has a superiority complex:
Remain calm: It can be easy to become frustrated or angry when dealing with someone with a superiority complex. Step away from the situation if possible. People find it difficult to remain rational when angry or upset.
Use simple, clear communication: Short, straightforward statements are crucial in conveying information. The person may be preoccupied with their own objectives. Simplified, direct language helps you to be heard.
Consider minimising contact if the person does not play an important role in your life.
Set clear behaviour boundaries and enforce these where necessary. Being clear on what you will and will not tolerate helps to protect yourself.
Get support. Behaviours associated with a superiority complex are challenging. Coping as part of a team will boost your resources.
Treat the person concerned with respect, but be prepared to walk away when they are not prepared to consider your perspective.
Summary
A superiority complex is a psychological condition that affects how individuals perceive themselves relative to others.
We recommend you seek professional help if you suspect an inflated sense of self-importance and superiority. This support can help you learn effective coping strategies and gain insight into your condition.
Dealing with someone with a superiority complex can be difficult, but strategies are available. Options include remaining calm, maintaining personal boundaries, seeking support and displaying positive behaviour.
Further reading:
Lots of books are available on personality types and problems. There’s a lot of rubbish out there, so take care when picking something up off the bookshelf. Here are a couple of useful resources:
Livesley & Larstone’s handbook on personality disorders is a good overview of the subject, taking an academic approach.
Here is an example of the skills people can develop to manage their relationship and emotional difficulties.
We are Coaching & Clinical Psychologists with extensive experience helping people conquer a range of wellbeing and performance issues at home and in the workplace. Read more about our work, watch practical skills videos or browse other articles. Get in touch anytime.
