The humanistic approach

Question 1

Humanistic psychology

Answer 1

an approach to understand behaviour that emphasises the importance of subjective experience and each person’s capacity for self-determination.

Question 2

Freewill

Answer 2

the notion that humans can make choices and are not determined by internal biological or external forces

Question 3

Self-actualisation

Answer 3

the desire to grow psychologically and fulfil one’s full potential- becoming what you are capable of

Question 4

Hierarchy of needs

Answer 4

a five-levelled hierarchical sequence in which basic psychological needs (such as hunger) must be satisfied before higher psychological needs (such as self esteem and self-actualisation) can be achieved.

Question 5

self

Answer 5

The ideas and values that characterise ‘I’ and ‘me.’ Includes perception and the valuing of ‘what I am’ and ‘what I can do’ - self concept and self image

Question 6

congruence

Answer 6

If there is a similarity between a person’s self-image and their ideal self then congruence exists. A difference represents incongruence

Question 7

Conditions of worth

Answer 7

Conditions imposed on an individual’s behaviour and development considered necessary to earn positive regard from significant others. e.g. “I will only love you if… you study medicine”