Last edition we defined inferiority complex as a sense of being inferior; an overdeveloped sense of being inferior to others and in extreme cases manifest itself in either withdrawn or aggressive social behaviour. In other words, it means belittling ones worth, and humiliating oneself. This is another major problem that affects not only the Muslim youths, but the adults as well. This is especially so with the problems that has occurred in the Muslim world in recent years.
Signs of Inferiority Complex
From the signs of inferiority complex are the following: SeIf-isolation. This means that a person simply decides to just be on his own most of the time and not interacting with people around him. The person who is suffering from inferiority complex does not mix with people. This is not to be confused with the virtue of being shy. As a matter of fact, shyness is something that is encouraged in our religion. The Prophet [peace and blessings be upon him] said Shyness is part of faith [Bukhari].
Avoiding responsibilities
The person who is suffering from inferiority complex does not want to take on any responsibilities. He believes that he will not be able to do it well no matter how simple it may be. He does not voice his opinion. Also, this person finds it difficult expressing his opinion concerning a matter that involves him. This is because he feels he will be wrong eventually. Rather, he will resort to backbiting or quarreling.
Causes of inferiority complex
The first and major reason for this is suppression and compulsion. If a child brought up in an environment where he is not allowed to express himself but rather, he is compelled to do virtually everything and when he seeks to know anything he is shouted down or beaten, then the child may just end up suffering from inferiority complex. Persistent failure to meet ones objective. When a person sets out to meet a particular objective and he fails to achieve it and he tries another and he fails and again, he fails. It is most likely that this will affect his self-worth and confidence.
Little faith in Allaah
If a person does not recognise the attribute of Allaah the way it should be recognised then, the person is most likely going to suffer from inferiority complex. Allaah is the only One that is perfect and is the One that grants honour to whomever He wills. If a person recognises this, then he will not feel inferior to anybody Remedy. One should abandon any group that is known for negative self-contempt and associate with people with self-confidence. As youths, we should try as much as possible to put in our best in whatever we are doing and try to achieve perfection. Doing this will increase the personal self-confidence and reduce any inferiority complex! Give people the right to express their opinion. Do not oppress or cow them in any way.
Finally, remember the honour of Allaah upon you because of your eeman (faith). For He says;
"But honour, power and glory belong to Allaah, to His Messenger [peace and blessings be upon him], and to the believers, but the hypocrites know not" [63: 8]
And Allaah is the source of help.
This article was culled from the publications of Deen Communication Limited