Comparative Study of Insecurity and Inferiority in Young Adult Males and Females

Abstract

The present study focused on a comparative analysis of insecurity and inferiority among young adult males and females. The main purpose of the research was to examine whether gender differences exist in these two psychological variables during young adulthood. A total sample of 86 participants (43 males and 43 females) aged between 18 and 25 years was selected using random sampling. This study follows comparative research. Data is collected using the inferiority complex scale (COMPIN-10) and the identity insecurity scale (IIS). The result is analyzed using a independent sample t-test. Finding there was no significant difference between male and female participants in insecurity and inferiority; variables null hypotheses is accepted. The study highlights that emotional challenges such as insecurity and inferiority are emphasizing the need for equal psychological support and mental health awareness among young adults.

Introduction

The study focuses on insecurity and inferiority among young adults (ages 18–25), a critical developmental stage involving psychological, emotional, and social changes. During this period, individuals face responsibilities related to education, career planning, and relationships, which may create confusion, pressure, and mental health challenges. Social comparison, as explained by Festinger’s Social Comparison Theory (1954), along with social media influence, increases self-evaluation and can lead to feelings of insecurity and inferiority.

Insecurity refers to self-doubt, lack of confidence, and fear of rejection. It includes emotional, social, physical, and academic/career insecurity. Inferiority, as described by Adler (1927), involves feelings of weakness or self-doubt when comparing oneself to others. While moderate inferiority can motivate self-improvement, excessive feelings may negatively affect mental health.

The study highlights that insecurity and inferiority are common in young adulthood due to increased expectations, gender roles, competition, and social pressures. Persistent feelings may lead to anxiety, depression, and low psychological well-being. The rationale emphasizes the importance of understanding these emotions to support students’ mental health and personal development.

The review of literature shows that previous studies link inferiority and insecurity with low self-esteem, poor academic performance, social comparison, emotional immaturity, attachment styles, socioeconomic background, and mental health issues. Research also indicates gender differences and the role of social environment in shaping these feelings.

The study aims to compare insecurity and inferiority between young adult males and females using a comparative research design. The sample consists of 86 participants (43 males and 43 females) aged 18–25, selected through random sampling. Two tools were used: the Inferiority Complex Scale (COMPIN-10) and the Identity Insecurity Scale (IIS). Data were analyzed using t-tests with SPSS/MS Excel to examine gender differences.

Conclusion

The main purpose of the present study is to compare insecurity and inferiority among young adult males and females. To examine whether gender differences occur in these psychological variables. The research focused on understanding how young adults experience feelings of insecurity and inferiority during an important stage of life. The study found no real difference between men and women when it comes to feeling insecure or inferior. The stats backed this up—both null hypotheses held up, so gender doesn’t really shape these feelings among the young adults they looked at. What matters here is that the study shows guys and girls go through pretty much the same emotional struggles. That’s a big deal for psychology and for society, because it makes the case for equal mental health support across the board. If we really get how insecurity and inferiority work, we can actually help young adults grow into more confident, emotionally healthy people.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2026 Rahul Verma, Madhu Pandey. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.