What term refers to the central psychological framework of the client and the lifestyle assumptions that may be flawed?

• A. Social interest
• B. Push-button
• C. Private logic
• D. Striving for superiority

Answer: (C)

Private logic is the term that describes the client's internal framework—the system of beliefs, values, and interpretations that guide behavior and the lifestyle assumptions that may be flawed. In Adlerian theory, this private logic shapes the lifestyle, the pattern of striving and coping that the person uses to meet perceived needs. When private logic contains rigid or self-defeating beliefs, the resulting lifestyle becomes maladaptive, leading to patterns that hinder cooperation and growth rather than contributing to the social good. The therapist helps by exploring these beliefs, uncovering distortions, and guiding the client toward a more flexible private logic that supports healthier, more socially connected goals. By contrast, social interest focuses on belonging and contributing to others; striving for superiority describes a motivation to feel superior over others rather than the internal framework itself; push-button is not part of this framework.