Chapter 11 - May - Existential Psychology Flashcards
What is the basic tenet of existentialism?
A basic tenet of existentialism is that existence precedes essence, meaning that what people do is more important than what they are.
What is a second assumption of existentialism?
People are both subjective and objective; that is, they are thinking as well as acting beings.
What is a key motivation for people?
People are motivated to search for answers about the meaning of life.
What does existentialism say regarding freedom?
People have an equal degree of freedom and responsibility.
What does ‘Dasein’ mean?
Dasein, or ‘being-in-the-world’, refers to the unity of people and their phenomenological world.
What are three modes of being?
Umwelt means relationship with nature, Mitwelt means relationship with other people, and Eigenwelt means relationship with oneself.
Decribe nonbeing.
Nonbeing, or nothingness, is awareness of the possibility of one’s not being through death or loss of awareness.
What is the cause of anxiety?
People experience anxiety by being aware of nonbeing or aware of their freedom to make choices.
What is normal anxiety?
Normal anxiety, experienced by everyone, is proportionate to the threat.
What is neurotic anxiety?
Neurotic anxiety is disproportionate to the threat, involves repression, and leads to self-defeating behaviour.
What is the source of guilt?
People experience guilt as a result of their (1) separation from the natural world, (2) inability to judge the needs of others, and (3) denial of their own potentials.
What is the function of intentionality?
It is the underlying structure that gives meaning to experience and allows people to make decisions about the future.
What is May’s definition of love?
Love is taking pleasure in the presence of the other person and affirming that person’s value as much as one’s own.
How does May describe sex?
Sex is a basic form of love and a biological function that seeks to be satisfied by release of sexual tension.
Describe eros?
Eros is a higher form of love than sex, and seeks enduring union with the other person.
