In Adlerian therapy, what does the term "fictional finalism" refer to?

In Adlerian therapy, "fictional finalism" refers to the concept of an individual's guiding goals or ideals that influence their behavior, motivations, and interpretations of life events. It revolves around the notion that people are driven by their imagined future and how they perceive their potential to reach certain aspirations.

The term encapsulates the idea that individuals create their own narrative or purpose through well-defined goals, which helps them navigate their social world effectively. This future-oriented, aspirational vision serves as a motivational force, guiding their actions and shaping their attitudes toward challenges and social interactions.

While past experiences certainly play a role in shaping an individual's mindset and behavior, and dreams can provide insights into their subconscious, fictional finalism is specifically focused on the aspirations or goals that individuals strive for in their lives. Thus, the chosen term captures the essence of how future goals and ideal states influence a person's behavior and social dealings, emphasizing the forward-looking and purpose-driven nature of human psychology in Adlerian thought.