Superiority and inferiority complexes are two major problems that affect youths and adults. Clearly, they are obvious in the youths. Sadly, Muslim youths are not left out either. Superiority complex can be defined as belief in own superiority or an exaggerated sense of being better than other people. On the other hand, Inferiority complex is defined as or sense of being inferior; an overdeveloped sense of being inferior to others.
In extreme cases it can manifest itself in either withdrawn or aggressive social behaviour. A person who suffers from superiority complex, sees himself as better than every other person and therefore behaves to them as such. The person wants to be treated specially and sometimes if he is not treated as such, he may become abusive or sometimes violent.
Causes of Superiority complex
One of the major causes of superiority complex is family background. If a person is from a wealthy, educated or what we can call influential background, it is more likely that the person may suffer from superiority complex.
This is especially so, if the family is such that does not understand the religion of Islam properly or do not practice it the way it should be. Another factor that may be responsible for superiority complex is when a person is favoured with a special talent or knowledge. This may make the person begin to look at others as being inferior to him. The person who has this attitude will not recognise or appreciate the opinion of others. He thinks he is always right and every other person is wrong.
Thirdly, lack of the fear of Allaah will and staying away from the gathering where Allaah is remembered will make a person become arrogant and look down upon every other person. Sometimes the tribe, nationality or race that a person comes from may make a person feel superior to others who are not from the same origin as him.
Signs of Superiority complex in a person
A person with superiority complex finds it difficult to greet people that he thinks are not up to him in status. He may even find it difficult to even return the greetings others. He may become violent if he feels somebody who is not up to him has insulted him. He wants to be given preferential treatment amongst his peers.
Remedy
Firstly, remember that only Allaah is superior above all His creations. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
"Allaah Most High says: I Pride is my cloak and majesty is my lower garment, whoever vies with me regarding one of them I shall throw him into Hell. [Abu Dawood]
Also, the person should remember that honour and pride lie in actions and deeds that are pleasing to Allaah not in any material thing that one may have achieved. Even then one should be thankful to Allaah for making one able to be among those who is something for Islam. Allaah says;
"Verily the most honourable of you with Allaah is that [believer} who has taqwa [piety}. [Q49:13]
It is better for to think that his Muslim brother is better than him in the religion than for one to think that one is better than the person. This will make one to be humble rather than being proud. Finally one should pray to Allaah to help us against this disease.
This article was culled from the publications of Deen Communication Limited