Humanistic Approach

• key assumptions of humanistic approach

  - should study a person as a whole, instead of singular mental processes/behaviour
• define free will, humanism

  - our actions are not determined by cause/effect relationships (biological or environmental), we consciously choose our behaviours freely
• define self-actualisation

  - the point at which an individual has achieved their full potential

  - humanists think everyone has the capability and motivation to work towards this goal
• outline Maslow's hierarchy of needs

  suggests before satisfying self-actualisation, the individua must meet more basic needs

  - survival needs, safety, love/belonging, esteem

  - few people manage to satisfy all needs and self-actualise
• outline 'focus on the self' (Rogers)

  - Rogers suggests each person has a self-concept (how you see yourself) and an ideal self (how you wish to be)

  - congruence: how close the self-concept and ideal self, if there is a big difference (incongruence) self-actualisation cannot be achieved
• define conditions of worth

  - conditions imposed on an individual's behaviour and development that are considered necessary to earn positive regard from significant others
• outline humanistic counselling

  - client centered therapy, Rogers

  - attempts to help the client achieve congruence and provides unconditional positive regard

  - the client is the 'expert' responsible for solving their own problems
• A03, humanistic approach

  - concepts such as 'self-actualisation' are not clearly defined as humanists view everyone as unique, therefore not measurable

  - holistic view of studying humans: consider all factors when attempting to understand individuals

  - cultural bias: individualistic western cultures vs collectivist cultures, may place the hierarchy in a different order