Which psychologist is known for developing Adlerian psychology and proposing the theory of three life tasks—occupational, social, and love?

• A. Rudolf Dreikurs
• B. B.F. Skinner
• C. Alfred Adler
• D. John Bowlby

Answer: (C)

Alfred Adler’s approach, Adlerian psychology, holds that people are motivated by social connectedness and a drive to overcome feelings of inferiority. A central idea he introduced is that personality develops through how a person tackles three life tasks: work (occupational), friendship and community (social), and intimate love relationships (love). Mastery and balance across these tasks reflect healthy social interest and a sense of belonging; trouble in one area can signal or contribute to broader patterns of maladjustment. This framework emphasizes purposeful, goal-directed behavior aimed at contributing to others, not just satisfying internal drives.

Context helps clarify why this fits: the other figures sit in different theoretical camps—one in behaviorism, focusing on observable behavior and reinforcement; another in attachment theory, emphasizing early bonds; and another who extended Adler’s ideas into classroom and family dynamics. So the psychologist who developed Adlerian psychology and articulated the three life tasks is Alfred Adler.