Theoretical Perspectives on Development

The Humanistic Theories…

centralized on the drive toward self-actualization, to realize one’s full potential .

include personal growth, openness to experience, living in the present, personal responsibility, and the inherent goodness of people.

are called Organistic theories with a focus on the entire person.

The Humanistic Theories…

Today rather than the past~There is more to human existence than

dealing with hidden conflicts (Anti-Freud)

The humanists’ view that persons are inherently good with unique attributes for greatness

In contrast to Freudian determinism, humanists emphasize personal responsibility and choice

The Humanists…

Abraham Maslow

Carl Rogers

Who is Abraham Maslow?

rejected ideas of Freud and Skinner

originally studied psychology because of his intrigue with behavioral theory and the writings of John B. Watson

forerunner of positive psychology books are his bestfriends

grew up Jewish in a non-Jewish neighborhood 1908-1970

Father of Humanistic Psychology

Maslow’s Humanistic TheoryWe are

born with certain needs.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Maslow’s Humanistic Theory Physiological Needs

FoodOxygenWaterShelterSleepSex

Maslow’s Humanistic Theory Safety Needs

Security in our environment

Stability and protection Job security, insurance

and retirement plans

Maslow’s Humanistic Theory Esteem Needs

Achievement, education, competence and respect

Lower level need for respect from others

Such as recognition, attention, appreciation.

Higher level self respect Such as confidence, competence,

mastery.

Maslow’s Humanistic Theory

Realize our fullest potential Moments of transcendence. To climb above culture.

Self Actualization

Carl Rogers

People are a “genetic blueprint, to which substance

is added as life progresses”

Carl RogersPersonality develops in service

to positive goals

Everyone has innate capacities, capabilities, and potentials

*Goal of life: become the best version of whatever each of us is capable of

Rogers is regarded as the founder of psychotherapy research.

Rogers’ Idea

Example: If you think you are intelligent you will strive to live up to that image

The need for self-actualization: a need to reach one’s full potential

The need for self-regard: an unconditional positive view of the self

Rogers described two needs as essential to well-being:

What makes a person “fully functioning”?

Fully functioning —an individual whose self-concept closely resembles his or her inborn capacities or potentials.

Rogers maintained that to be fully functioning, one must:

be open to experience live in the moment live life to the fullest trust own intuition

Unconditional positive regard—full acceptance and love of another person regardless of that person’s behavior.

Conditional Positive Regard—acceptance and love that are extended only when a person behaves in certain ways and fulfills certain conditions.

What are some pros and cons to Humanistic Personality Theories?