strength of free will

• free will is that it is supported by the effectiveness of Humanistic therapies, which are grounded in the belief that individuals have conscious control over their lives. 

  Evidence: For example, Elliott (2002) conducted a meta-analysis of 86 studies and found that client-centred therapy (CCT) led to significant improvements in clients’ mental health and well-being. The therapy was found to be as effective as other mainstream psychological treatments, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). 

  Explanation: CCT, developed by Carl Rogers, assumes that people are self-determining and can make choices that lead to personal growth. It focuses on creating a therapeutic environment of unconditional positive regard, empathy, and genuineness, which allows individuals to work towards congruence between their self-concept and ideal self. The success of this approach supports the idea that people can exercise free will to change their
• more optimistic and empowering view of human behaviour compared to deterministic perspectives. 

  Evidence: Roberts et al. (2000) conducted a longitudinal study involving over 750 adolescents and found that individuals who strongly believed in their own free will were significantly less likely to suffer from depression over a follow-up period. The study used self-report measures to assess belief in personal control and mental health outcomes. 

  Explanation: This research suggests that the belief in personal agency and autonomy may act as a protective factor for psychological well-being. Free will theories promote the idea that individuals can take control of their lives, make decisions about their future, and overcome obstacles – all of which are associated with improved motivation and resilience. This is in line with the Humanistic approach, which emphasises the pursuit of self-actualisation and a person-centred view of growth.