Humanistic Approach

Question 1

Basic assumptions of the humanistic approach

Answer 1

• the whole person- we are more than the sum of our parts
• free will - we have free will and control our behaviour
• we are all unique- each person should br treated as an individual
• self actualisation- every human has an innate drive to grow psychologically and be the best they can
• scientific method is too objective - humans are unique and can be viewed objectively

Question 2

Define the hierarchy of needs

Answer 2

Created by Abraham Maslow - the hierarchy of needs are the things we need in order to reach the top level of self actualisation

Question 3

What is the order of hierarchy of needs - from top to bottom

Answer 3

• self actualisation
• esteem
• love/belonging
• safety
• physiological

Question 4

Strengths of the humanistic approach

Answer 4

• not reductionist - attempts to break behaviour & experience in to Sam alter components
• free will- people determine their own development
• positive approach - optimistic
• only approach which places the individuals subjective experience and meanings at the centre

Question 5

Limitations of the humanistic approach

Answer 5

• no scientific methods used - does not use any objective methods
• cultural bias - many of the ideas of the humanistic approach are associated with countries that are more individualistic
• lacks empirical support