The Humanistic Approach Flashcards
what is the main assumption of the humanistic approach?
each person has a unique way of perceiving the world, so their actions make sense only within their personal perspective; this approach values understanding subjective experiences over objectivity
what does ‘self determining’ mean in the context of humanistic psychology?
It means individuals have free will and can make their own choices about how they think and act, independent of biological or external influences
define ‘self-actualisation’
self-actualisation is the innate drive within people to grow, fulfil their potential, and become everything they are capable of being
what is maslows hierarchy of needs?
its a theory that basic needs, like food and water, must be met before higher needs, such as self-actualisation, can be pursued
give an example of maslows hierarchy of needs in action
a student cannot focus on learning if they are hungry and preoccupied with thoughts of lunch
according to rogers, what is needed for self-actualisation?
individuals needs a positive self-view, or positive self-regard, which can only be developed if they receive unconditional positive regard from others
what is ‘unconditional positive regard’?
it is the feeling of being valued and respected by others without any conditions or reservations, especially important from parents during childhood
what are ‘conditions of worth’?
conditions of worth are beliefs that one must meet certain standards or conditions to be valued and loved by others
what is ‘incongruity’ in humanistic psychology?
incongruity is the gap between persons real self (who they are) and their ideal self (who they think they should be)
when can self-actualisation occur, according to rogers?
self-actualisation can only occur when there is congruence, or alignment between an individuals real self and ideal self
what happens if there is a large gap between the real self and the ideal self?
a large gap leads to negative feelings of self-worth, make self-actualisation impossible
