The Humanistic Approach (Paper 2) Flashcards
Why do humanists reject the scientific method
Humanists argue that human behaviour is complex, so unsuitable for study through traditional scientific methods, which seek to identify and test simple cause-and-effect relationships objectively.
What do humanists believe our behaviour is caused by
Humanists argue that external causes do not set our behaviours. Instead, we have Free will, this is acting with personal agency, the ability of individuals to shape their own lives through conscious decision-making.
What does the humanistic approach criticise other approaches for
their reductionist explanations
How do humanists explain our behaviour
Instead of attributing behaviour solely to genetics (as biological psychologists might), learned responses (behaviourists), observed rewards (social learning theorists), cognitive priming (cognitive psychologists), or unconscious drives (psychodynamic theory), humanists instead suggest a holistic approach, considering all these factors and their interactions.
What do humanists use to support their theories
Case studies involving detailed research into single individuals or specific events
Why do humanists use case studies instead of experimental methods
Case studies match the humanistic goal of capturing the richness and depth of human experience rather than reducing it to variables that can be easily manipulated or measured in an experimental setting.
In what way do humanists focus on mental health
By exploring personal growth, self-understanding, andself-actualisation, humans achieving their highest potential and performing at their best.
What is the pyramid to represent a persons path to their full potential called
Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs
What did Maslow believe about reaching your full potential
Maslow argued that certain foundational needs must be met before an individual can achieve self-actualisation. The hierarchy starts with the most basic needs and progresses to higher levels.
What are our physiological needs
These are the basic necessities for human survival, such as food, water, warmth, and rest.
What are our safety needs
these include personal and financial security, health, and well-being.
What are our love and belongingness needs
social needs include the desire for intimate relationships, friends, and social connections.
What are our esteem needs
Both self-esteem and esteem from others, including feelings of accomplishment and recognition.
What is self-actualisation
The highest level of psychological development, it is the process of realising your full potential. The individual deeply understands themselves, their values, and their purpose in life.
What order does Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs go in
Physiological needs, Safety needs, Love and Belongingness needs, esteem needs and self-actualisation
What did Carl Rogers argue
Congruenceis essential for achieving self-actualisation.
What does congruence refer to
The alignment between one’s perceived self (self-image) and ideal self (the person one aspires to be).
What happens when there is a significant gap between the perceived and ideal selves
The person experiencesincongruenceand cannot achieve self-actualisation.
What did rogers believe about reducing the gap between the perceived and ideal self
Reducing this gap and increasing congruence is crucial for personal development and well-being.
Give two ways of becoming congruent
Adopting a more realistic ideal self and enhancing self - concept / perceived self
What are peoples ideal selves often shaped by
Conditions of worth, which are expectations from others that one must meet to earn their love or approval
What can conditions of worth lead to
An ideal self that is unattainably perfect or not truly reflective of someone’s genuine desires and values.
What can people do by recognising and modifying their unrealistic standards
They can set more attainable goals that are in harmony with their true selves.
What is improving self - concept / perceived self helped by
Receiving unconditional positive regard from others, acceptance and love without conditions or expectations
What are individuals more likely to do when reaching unconditional positive regard
To develop a positive and realistic self - image, acknowledging their strengths and weaknesses without undue self-criticism
who developed client/person - centred therapy
Carl Rogers
What does client/person centred therapy emphasise the importance of
The present and the future over the past and aims to assist clients in achieving congruence between their perceived and ideal selves.
What role does the therapist in client - centred therapy take
The therapist does not assume the role of an expert who directs the client; instead, the approach is founded on the belief that clients are the best experts on their own lives and experiences.
The therapist’s role is to offer support, facilitating the client’s journey toward self-discovery and resolution of their issues.
What will the therapist give to the client that the client may not receive elsewhere
Unconditional positive regard
