Module 1: Introduction to Humanistic Psychology

Introduction:

Humanistic psychology is a perspective that emphasizes looking at the whole individual and
stresses concepts such as free will, self-efficacy, and self-actualization. Rather than concentrating
on dysfunction, humanistic psychology strives to help people fulfill their potential and maximize
their well-being.
This area of psychology emerged during the 1950s as a reaction to psychoanalysis and
behaviorism, which had dominated psychology during the first half of the
century. Psychoanalysis was focused on understanding the unconscious motivations that drive
behavior while behaviorism studied the conditioning processes that produce behavior.

Humanist thinkers felt that both psychoanalysis and behaviorism were too pessimistic, either
focusing on the most tragic of emotions or failing to take into account the role of personal
choice.

However, it is not necessary to think of these three schools of thought as competing elements.
Each branch of psychology has contributed to our understanding of the human mind and
behavior.

Other Types of Humanism

Humanism is a philosophy that stresses the importance of human factors rather than looking at
religious, divine, or spiritual matters. Humanism is rooted in the idea that people have an ethical
responsibility to lead lives that are personally fulfilling while at the same time contributing to the
greater good of all people.

Humanism stresses the importance of human values and dignity. It proposes that people can
resolve problems through science and reason. Rather than looking to religious traditions,
humanism focuses on helping people live well, achieve personal growth, and make the world a
better place.

The term "humanism" is often used more broadly, but it also has significance in a number of
different fields, including psychology.

 Religious Humanism

Some religious traditions incorporate elements of humanism as part of their belief systems.
Examples of religious humanism include Quakers, Lutherans, and Unitarian Universalists.

 Secular Humanism
Secular humanism rejects all religious beliefs, including the existence of the supernatural. This
approach stresses the importance of logic, the scientific method, and rationality when it comes to
understanding the world and solving human problems.

Uses for Humanistic Psychology

Humanistic psychology focuses on each individual's potential and stresses the importance of
growth and self-actualization. The fundamental belief of humanistic psychology is that people
are innately good and that mental and social problems result from deviations from this natural
tendency.
Humanistic psychology also suggests that people possess personal agency and that they
are motivated to use this free will to pursue things that will help them achieve their full potential
as human beings.

Some of the ways that humanistic psychology is applied within the field of psychology include:

 Humanistic therapy: Several different types of psychotherapy have emerged that are
rooted in the principles of humanism. These include client-centered therapy, existential
therapy, and Gestalt therapy.
 Personal development: Because humanism stresses the importance of self-actualization
and reaching one's full potential, it can be used as a tool of self-discovery and personal
development.
 Social change: Another important aspect of humanism is improving communities and
societies. For individuals to be healthy and whole, it is important to develop societies that
foster personal well-being and provide social support.

Theories In Humanistic Psychology

Maslow’s Theory of Hierarchy

Abraham Maslow first introduced the concept of a hierarchy of needs in his 1943 paper, titled "A
Theory of Human Motivation," and again in his subsequent book, "Motivation and Personality."
This hierarchy suggests that people are motivated to fulfill basic needs before moving on to
other, more advanced needs.
While some of the existing schools of thought at the time—such
as psychoanalysis and behaviorism—tended to focus on problematic behaviors, Maslow was
more interested in learning about what makes people happy and what they do to achieve that
aim.
As a humanist, Maslow believed that people have an inborn desire to be self-actualized, that
is, to be all they can be. To achieve this ultimate goal, however, a number of more basic needs
must be met. This includes the need for food, safety, love, and self-esteem.1
Maslow believed that these needs are similar to instincts and play a major role in motivating
behavior.2 There are five different levels of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, starting at the lowest
level known as physiological needs.

1. Physiological Needs

The physiological needs include those that are vital to survival. Some examples of physiological
needs include:

 Food
 Water
 Breathing
 Homeostasis

In addition to the basic requirements of nutrition, air, and temperature regulation, physiological
needs also include shelter and clothing. Maslow included sexual reproduction in this level of the
hierarchy as well, since it is essential to the survival and propagation of the species.

2. Security and Safety Needs

At the second level of Maslow’s hierarchy, the needs start to become a bit more complex. At this
level, the needs for security and safety become primary.

People want control and order in their lives. Some of the basic security and safety needs include:

 Financial security
 Health and wellness
 Safety against accidents and injury

Finding a job, obtaining health insurance and health care, contributing money to a savings
account, and moving to a safer neighborhood are all examples of actions motivated by security
and safety needs.
Note: Together, the safety and physiological levels of Maslow's hierarchy of needs make up what
is often referred to as "basic needs."

3. Social Needs
The social needs in Maslow’s hierarchy include love, acceptance, and belonging. At this level,
the need for emotional relationships drives human behavior. Some of the things that satisfy this
need include:

 Friendships
 Romantic attachments
 Family relationships
 Social groups
 Community groups
 Churches and religious organizations

In order to avoid loneliness, depression, and anxiety, it is important for people to feel loved and
accepted by others. Personal relationships with friends, family, and lovers play an important role,
as does involvement in groups—such as religious groups, sports teams, book clubs, and other
group activities.
4. Esteem Needs
At the fourth level in Maslow’s hierarchy is the need for appreciation and respect. Once the
needs at the bottom three levels have been satisfied, the esteem needs begin to play a more
prominent role in motivating behavior.
At this level, it becomes increasingly important to gain the respect and appreciation of others.
People have a need to accomplish things, then have their efforts recognized. In addition to the
need for feelings of accomplishment and prestige, esteem needs include such things as self-
esteem and personal worth.

People need to sense that they are valued by others and feel that they are making a contribution
to the world. Participation in professional activities, academic accomplishments, athletic or team
participation, and personal hobbies can all play a role in fulfilling the esteem needs.

People who are able to satisfy esteem needs by achieving good self-esteem and the recognition
of others tend to feel confident in their abilities.3 Conversely, those who lack self-esteem and the
respect of others can develop feelings of inferiority.
Note: Together, the esteem and social levels make up what is known as the "psychological
needs" of the hierarchy.

5. Self-Actualization Needs
At the very peak of Maslow’s hierarchy are the self-actualization needs. Self-actualizing people
are self-aware, concerned with personal growth, less concerned with the opinions of others, and
interested in fulfilling their potential.

"What a man can be, he must be," Maslow explained, referring to the need people have to
achieve their full potential as human beings.
Maslow’s said of self-actualization: "It may be loosely described as the full use and exploitation
of talents, capabilities, potentialities, etc. Such people seem to be fulfilling themselves and to be
doing the best that they are capable of doing. They are people who have developed or are
developing to the full stature of which they capable."

Criticisms of Maslow’s Theory

Maslow's theory has become wildly popular both in and out of psychology. The fields of
education and business have been particularly influenced by the theory. But Maslow's concept
has not been without criticism. Chief among the long-held objections are:

 Needs don't follow a hierarchy: While some research has shown support for Maslow's
theories, most of the research has not been able to substantiate the idea of a needs
hierarchy. Wahba and Bridwell (researchers from Baruch College) reported that there
was little evidence for Maslow's ranking of these needs and even less evidence that these
needs are in a hierarchical order.5
 The theory is difficult to test: Other critics of Maslow's theory note that his definition of
self-actualization is difficult to test scientifically.6 His research on self-actualization was
also based on a very limited sample of individuals, including people he knew as well as
biographies of famous individuals who Maslow believed to be self-actualized.

Some of the more recent critiques suggest that Maslow was inspired by the belief systems of the
Blackfoot nation, but neglected to acknowledge this. Maslow's studied the Northern Blackfoot
tribe as an anthropologist. However, this foundational basis disappeared over time, causing him
to misuse the concepts he was originally there to assess.

ROLLO MAY

Rollo May was a prominent figure in humanistic psychology, and he contributed to the field with
his existential-humanistic approach. His theory emphasized the subjective, experiential, and
existential aspects of human existence. Here are some key elements of Rollo May's theory in
humanistic psychology:

1. Existentialism: May was heavily influenced by existentialist philosophy, particularly the

works of existentialist philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Søren Kierkegaard. He believed
that existential concerns, such as freedom, choice, and responsibility, were central to
understanding human psychology.
2. The Daimonic: May introduced the concept of the "daimonic" to describe the darker, more
complex aspects of human nature. The daimonic represents the inner struggle between positive
and negative forces within an individual, such as creativity and destructiveness. May argued that
acknowledging and confronting the daimonic was essential for personal growth and self-
awareness.

3. Anxiety and Courage: May proposed that anxiety was an inevitable part of human existence.
He distinguished between healthy anxiety, which can be a motivating force for personal growth,
and neurotic anxiety, which results from denying or avoiding existential concerns. May
emphasized the importance of courage in facing one's anxieties and challenges, as it allows
individuals to embrace their freedom and take responsibility for their choices.

4. Freedom and Responsibility: May believed that individuals have the freedom to make choices
and are responsible for the consequences of those choices. He argued that accepting this
responsibility is crucial for living an authentic and meaningful life. In this sense, May's approach
aligns with the humanistic emphasis on personal agency and self-determination.

5. The Search for Meaning: May stressed the importance of finding meaning in life. He believed
that the quest for meaning is a fundamental human drive and that it plays a central role in
psychological well-being. Finding meaning can help individuals navigate the challenges of
existence.

6. Therapy and Existential Encounter: May's therapeutic approach was rooted in existential
encounter, which involves helping individuals explore their existential concerns and engage in
authentic self-exploration. He believed that the therapeutic relationship could serve as a context
for individuals to confront their anxieties, understand their daimonic aspects, and make more
authentic choices.

Rollo May's work has had a significant influence on humanistic psychology and existential
therapy. His ideas continue to be relevant in the field of psychology, particularly in
understanding the human experience and personal growth.

Person-Centered Therapy
Client-centered therapy, also known as person-centered therapy or Rogerian therapy, is a non-
directive form of talk therapy developed by humanist psychologist Carl Rogers during the 1940s
and 1950s. In this approach, you act as an equal partner in the therapy process, while your
therapist remains non-directive—they don't pass judgments on your feelings or offer suggestions
or solutions.
Rogers is widely regarded as one of the most influential psychologists of the 20th-century. He
believed that people are the best expert on their own lives and experiences.
Rogers also suggested that people have a self-actualizing tendency, or a desire to fulfill their
potential and become the best that they can be. His form of therapy was intended to allow clients
to fulfill that potential by relying on their own strength to change.1
Initially, Rogers called his technique "non-directive therapy." Much like psychoanalyst Sigmund
Freud, Rogers believed that the therapeutic relationship could lead to insights and lasting
changes in clients.

While his goal was to be as non-directive as possible, he eventually realized that therapists guide
clients even in subtle ways. He also found that clients often do look to their therapists for some
type of guidance or direction.

Techniques
Mental health professionals who utilize this approach strive to create the conditions needed for
their clients to change. This involves a therapeutic environment that is conformable, non-
judgmental, and empathetic. They use three techniques to achieve this:2

 Genuineness and congruence

 Unconditional positive regard
 Empathetic understanding

By using these three techniques, therapists can help clients grow psychologically, become
more self-aware, and change their behavior via self-direction. In this type of environment, a
client feels safe and free from judgment.
 Genuineness and Congruence

Client-centered therapists display genuineness and congruence with their clients. This means
they always act in accordance with their own thoughts and feelings, allowing themselves to share
openly and honestly.

This requires self-awareness and a realistic understanding of how internal experiences, like
thoughts and feelings, interact with external experiences. By modeling genuineness and
congruence, your therapist can help teach you these important skills.

Displaying genuineness and congruence also helps create a secure, trusting relationship between
you and your therapist. This trust contributes to a feeling of safety, which may help you engage
with therapy more comfortably.3
 Unconditional Positive Regard
Your therapist will show unconditional positive regard by always accepting you for who you are
and displaying support and care no matter what you are facing or experiencing. They may
express positive feelings to you or offer reassurance, or they may practice active listening,
responsive eye contact, and positive body language to let you know that they're engaged in the
session.

 Empathetic Understanding

Your therapist will also practice empathy during sessions, acting as a mirror of your feelings and
thoughts. They will seek to understand you and maintain an awareness and sensitivity to your
experience and your point of view.

The goal is to help you build a rapport with your therapist and ensure that you feel fully
understood. This may provide you with the environment you need to reflect on your own inner
thoughts, perceptions, and emotions, which may offer unique insights you didn't have access to
previously.

Benefits of Client-Centered Therapy

Sometimes, self-concept is congruent with reality. In other cases, self-perceptions are unrealistic
or not in tune with what exists in the real world. While most people distort reality to at least a
small degree, when self-concept conflicts with reality, incongruence can result.

For example, imagine a young woman who views herself as uninteresting and a poor
conversationalist even though other people find her fascinating and quite engaging. Because her
self-perceptions are not congruent with reality, she may experience poor self-esteem.

Through the process of client-centered therapy, you can learn to adjust your self-concept in order
to achieve congruence. The techniques used in the client-centered approach are all focused on
helping you reach a more realistic view of yourself and the world.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF HUMANISTIC PSYCHOLOGY

Humanism arose in the late 1950s as a “third force” in psychology, primarily in response to
what some psychologists viewed as significant limitations in
the behaviorist and psychoanalytic schools of thought. Behaviorism was often criticized
for lacking focus on human consciousness and personality and for being deterministic,
mechanistic, and over-reliant on animal studies. Psychoanalysis was rejected for its strong
emphasis on unconscious and instinctive forces and for being deterministic, as well.
In 1957 and 1958, Abraham Maslow and Clark Moustakas met with psychologists who
shared their goal of establishing a professional association that emphasized a more positive
and humanistic approach. The discussions revolved around the topics they believed would
become the core tenets of this new approach to psychology: Self-actualization, creativity,
health, individuality, intrinsic nature, self, being, becoming, and meaning.

After receiving sponsorship from Brandeis University, The American Association for
Humanistic Psychology was founded in 1961. Other major contributors to the development
of humanistic psychology were Carl Rogers, Gordon Allport , James Bugental, Charlotte
Buhler, Rollo May, Gardner Murphy , Henry Murray, Fritz Perls, Kirk Schneider, Louis
Hoffman, and Paul Wong.
Some fundamental assumptions of humanistic psychology include:

 Experiencing (thinking, sensing, perceiving, feeling, remembering, and so on)

is central.

 The subjective experience of the individual is the primary indicator of

behavior.

 An accurate understanding of human behavior cannot be achieved by studying

animals.

 Free will exists, and individuals should take personal responsibility for self-
growth and fulfillment.

 Not all behavior is determined.

 Self-actualization (the need for a person to reach maximum potential) is

natural.

 People are inherently good and will experience growth if provided with
suitable conditions, especially during childhood.

 Each person and each experience is unique, so psychologists should treat each
case individually, rather than rely on averages from group studies.

Humanistic psychology and Social issues

Although social transformation may not have been the primary focus in the past, a large
percentage of contemporary humanistic psychologists currently investigate pressing social,
cultural, and gender issues.[11] Even the earliest writers who were associated with and inspired
psychological humanism[2] explored topics as diverse as the political nature of "normal" and
everyday experience (RD Laing), the disintegration of the capacity to love in modern
consumerist society (Erich Fromm),[12] the growing technological dominance over human life
(Medard Boss), and the question of evil (Rollo May-Carl Rogers debate). In addition, Maureen
O’Hara, who worked with both Carl Rogers and Paolo Freire, has pointed to a convergence
between the two thinkers given their distinct but mutually related focus on developing critical
consciousness of situations which oppress and dehumanize.