Approaches - Humanistic (PAPER 2) Flashcards
What are the main features of the humanistic approach?
- Rejection of the scientific method
- Free will
- Holistic
Why do humanistic psychologists reject the scientific method?
They argue that human behaviour is complex, so it is unsuitable for study through traditional scientific methods
What is free will?
The idea that there are no deterministic causes of behaviour and all causes are internal
What does holistic mean?
Considering all factors that other approaches say is the primary cause of a behaviour
Negative evaluations of the Humanistic Approach. (AO3)
- unscientific
- vague concepts
- free will could be an illusion
- cultural bias to Western individualistic cultures
Positive evaluations of the Humanistic Approach. (AO3)
- could be more accurate, capturing the complexity of humans
- free will has good face validity and experience
- practical application
What are the two humanistic focuses?
- non-experimental methods
- mental health
What do humanistic psychologists consider the highest level of psychological development?
self-actualisation
What are the levels in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs?
- physiological
- safety and security
- love and belonging
- self-esteem
- self-actualisation
What are physiological needs?
Basic necessities (food, water, shelter. etc…)
What are security and safety needs?
Personal and financial security, health, and well-being
What are love and belongingness needs?
Desire for intimate relationships, friends, and social connections
What are esteem needs?
Self-esteem and esteem from others, including feelings of accomplishment and recognition
What is self-actualisation?
Top of the hierarchy - represents seeking personal growth and the fulfilment of potential
What is congruence?
The alignment of perceived and ideal self - essential for self-actualisation
