Humanistic Approach

• Who created the humanistic approach?

  Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers
• What does the humanistic approach focus on regarding behavior?

  The influence of subjective experience and self-determination
• What is the concept of free will in the humanistic approach?

  Humans can make choices that aren’t determined by internal/external forces
• What does the humanistic approach assume about all people?

  All people are unique and have an innate drive to achieve maximum potential
• How does the humanistic approach view the study of behavior?

  It believes understanding can only be achieved by studying both animals and humans
• What does idiographic mean in the context of the humanistic approach?

  It believes psychology should study individual cases
• What does it mean that the humanistic approach is not determinist?

  It means that not all behaviors are predetermined by pre-existing causes
• What does self-determining mean in the humanistic approach?

  Humans are active agents that make their own choices
• What do Rogers and Maslow reject in their approach?

  Scientific models in favor of personal experience
• What is Maslow's hierarchy of needs?

  A five-level sequence of needs that must be met for self-actualization
• What must be reached before a person can achieve self-actualization according to Maslow?

  Basic physiological needs must be met
• What does Maslow believe about personal growth?

  It is part of being human
• What are psychological barriers in the context of Maslow's hierarchy?


  They prevent someone from reaching their full potential
• What did Carl Rogers argue is necessary for personal growth?

  Congruence between self-concept and ideal self
• What is congruence in Rogers' theory?

  When self-concept matches the ideal self
• What happens if there is a large gap between self-concept and ideal self?


  The person will experience incongruence and negative feelings of self-worth
• What is client-centered therapy developed by Rogers?

  A form of modern-day psychotherapy to help cope with everyday problems
• What is the aim of Rogerian therapy?

  To increase self-worth and reduce incongruence
• What does Rogerian therapy focus on?

  Present problems rather than dwelling on the past
• What type of psychological conditions is Rogerian therapy best applied to?

  Mild psychological conditions
• According to Rogers, where does a sense of worthlessness often stem from?

  A lack of unconditional positive regard from parents
• What is a condition of worth according to Rogers?

  When a parent sets limits on their love for their child
• What are the advantages of the humanistic approach?

  • Rejects reductionism
  • Advocates holism - when understanding subjective experiences, the whole person is considered = more validity
  • Promotes a positive image of the human condition
• What are the disadvantages of the humanistic approach?

  • Concepts are not measurable and untestable
  • Lacks empirical evidence
  • Culturally biased
• How does the humanistic approach contrast with Freud's view of human nature?

  • Humanistic approach sees humans as good and free to work towards potential
  • Freud viewed people as prisoners of their past
• What are Physiological Needs


  Basic needs for survival, such as food, water, shelter, and sleep.
• What are Safety Needs


  Needs for security and stability, such as job security, financial stability, and protection from physical harm.
• What are Love and Belonging Needs


  Needs for social connection and belonging, such as friendship, romantic relationships, and sense of community.
• What are Self-esteem Needs

  Needs for self-esteem and recognition, such as respect from others, recognition for achievements, and self-confidence.
• What are Self-Actualization Needs


  Needs for personal growth and fulfillment, such as pursuing personal goals and interests, developing one's potential, and finding purpose and meaning.