humanistic psychology
focus on the ways people strive for self-determination and self-realization; study people through own self-reported experiences and feelings
humanistic psychologists
Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers
third-force perspective
Maslow and Rogers; emphasizes human potential
self-actualization
according to Maslow, one of the ultimate psychological needs that arises after basic physical and psychological needs are met and self-esteem is achieved; the motivation to fulfill one's potential
self-transcendence
according to Maslow, meaning, purpose, and communion beyond the self
unconditional positive regard
according to Rogers, an attitude of total acceptance toward another person
Carl Rogers
believed people are basically good and are endowed with self-actualizing tendencies; growth-promoting climate requires three conditions: genuineness, acceptance, and empathy
genuineness
being open with feelings, dropping facades, and being transparent and self-disclosing
acceptance
offering unconditional positive regard
empathy
sharing and mirroring feelings and reflecting meanings
self-concept
all our thoughts and feelings about ourselves, in answer to the question, "Who am I?
critiques of humanistic psychology
concepts are vague and subjective; the individualism encouraged by it fosters self-indulgence; it is naive--fails to appreciate the reality of our human capacity for evil