Hey I’ve been struggling with developing a character’s inferiority complex. Do you have any tips on ways to show not tell this?
How to write an inferiority complex
An inferiority complex can be described as a chronic low self-esteem, a consistent feeling of inadequacy.
Causes:
a low status in the social hierarchy
specific aspects about themself (physical or something else) that are looked down upon in society
being talked down on a lot
a lack of parental acceptance
failing to live up to high expectations put upon them
not reaching a goal they decided on themself
How to show a character's inferiority complex:
People act differently with this diagnosis, sometimes also depending on the situation and the person they are with. Here are some ideas.
show them focussing on negative aspects a lot
not being able to see it when something did work out well for them
talking badly about themself
withdrawing from friends and family
not being able to take a compliment or criticism
demeaning other's as a way to make other's feel as bad as they do
trying to get attention and even pity
can be shown through perfectionism
and not being able to cope well if something does not fit into the standard they have
I hope this helps you out!
- Jana