What does "psychological birth order" refer to in Adlerian therapy?

"Psychological birth order" in Adlerian therapy refers to the subjective experience and perceptions individuals have regarding their positions within the family, and how those perceptions shape their personality and behavior. Unlike actual birth order, which is simply the chronological sequence in which siblings are born, psychological birth order takes into account the unique dynamics and relationships within the family. It recognizes that different children can experience the same familial position in diverse ways based on various factors, such as parental attention, family dynamics, and personal temperament.

This concept highlights how these individual perceptions of their birth order roles—whether being the oldest, middle, youngest, or an only child—play a significant role in developing one’s self-concept, worldview, and coping mechanisms. Consequently, understanding psychological birth order can enhance therapeutic interventions by addressing the unique influences these perceptions have on a person's life, goals, and interpersonal relationships. This differentiation from merely assessing intelligence, fitting clients into categories outside family contexts, or focusing solely on actual birth order underscores the importance of individual experience in Adlerian therapy.