11 - The Humanistic Approach ( Maslow's Theory) Flashcards
Outline the humanistic approach
Emphasise that people have full conscious control over their own destiny i.e. they have free will.
Believes that human beings are able to make significant personal choices within the constraints imposed on them by other factors ( e.g. biological or societal influences )
Outline Maslow’s Theory
His hierarchy of needs emphasised the importance of personal growth and fulfilment.
Opened the door for later movements such as positive psychology (uses scientific understanding and effective intervention to aid in the achievement of a satisfactory life, rather than treating mental illness).
Define self - actualisation
When a person reaches their full potential and is the best version of themselves.
It found that most of those who attained this level shared certain characteristics:
- creative
- accepting of other people
- had an accurate perception of the world around them.
He believed that such individuals experienced self-actualisation in the form of peak experiences (moments of extreme inspiration and ecstasy during which they felt able to leave behind all doubts, fears and inhibitions)
Outline the hierarchy of needs
Most basic physiological needs represented at the bottom of the pyramid.
The most advanced needs are at the top.
People are motivated to achieve progression through the levels, each level must be fulfilled before a person can move up to a higher need.
The more basic the need the more powerfully it is experienced and the more difficult it is to ignore.
