PSYC 1000 Chapter Notes - Chapter 41: Humanistic Psychology

• School: University of Guelph
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 1000
• Professor: Dan Meegan

Document Summary

Humanistic theories: view personality with a focus on the potential for healthy personal growth. Proposes that we are motivated by a hierarchy of needs. Seek 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. Also seeks self-transcendence: meaning, purpose and communion beyond the self. Developed the ideas by studying healthy, creative people who shared similar characteristics. They were secure in their sense of who they were, their interests were problem- centered rather than self-centered. Believed that growth promoting climate required three conditions: Genuiness: genuine people that are open with their own feelings. Acceptance: accepting people that offer unconditional positive regard: an attitude of total acceptance toward another person. Empathy: empathic people share and mirror other"s feelings and reflect their meanings. Self-concept: all our thoughts and feelings about ourselves in answer to the question,