An Adlerian Analysis of Compensation Mechanisms in the Protagonist of the Young Adult Novel 'Kaka kermaki'

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Lecturer Department of Persian Language and Literature, Isf.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Foundations of Education, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.

10.22034/lda.2025.143891.1051

Abstract

Researching fictional characters based on the theories of psychologists who have delved into the intricacies of character has been a recurring focus for many researchers. Alfred Adler, a prominent psychologist and one of the founders of individual psychology, played a pivotal role in shedding light on this subject. He emphasized that social interest is inherent in all human beings, acquired through family and school experiences. However, if an individual fails to grasp a sense of belonging and value within their family, their social interest remains incomplete, potentially leading to an undesirable excess of social behavior. In the novel "Kakakermaki" (Kākā kermakī, Pisarī kih Pidarash Darāmad), authored by Salman Amin, the narrative delves into the developmental journey of the character Kaka. Through the perspective of an adult uncle who has distanced himself from his own childhood and adolescence, the author elucidates the motivations behind Kaka's actions and analyzes the circumstances that sowed the seeds of such behavior within him. The author is convinced that these reasons are multifaceted in nature. This article seeks to delve into an investigation and analysis of Kaka's personality, drawing from Adler's theory and employing a qualitative deductive content analysis. Through a meticulous examination of in-text evidence, the article uncovers the process through which Kaka develops an inferiority complex, the manifestations of this complex, and the mechanisms of compensation. In essence, it becomes apparent that Kaka's misguided lifestyle ultimately propels him toward a pursuit of superiority at any cost.

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