P2 Approach: Humanistic Approach

Question 1

What are the key assumptions

Answer 1

1. Each individual is unique
2. Humans have free will
3. Science should not be used to explain behaviour
4. Humans should be viewed holistically and not reduced to parts

Question 2

What is free will

Answer 2

The idea that humans are not controlled or predetermined by internal biological forces or external factors. They have a choice

Question 3

What did Maslow believe

Answer 3

In order to achieve self actualisation a number of other needs must be first met

Question 4

What did Maslow create which outlines the path that is taken to achieve self actualisation

Answer 4

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs

Question 5

What is self actualisation

Answer 5

The point at which the individual has achieved their full potential. Humanists think everyone has the capability and motivation to work towards this goal

Question 6

What did Carl Rodger’s suggest about focusing on self

Answer 6

Rodger’s suggests each person has a self-concept (how you see yourself) and an ideal self (how you would wish to be).

Question 7

What is congruence

Answer 7

Congruence is how close the self-concept and ideal self are. If there is a big difference (incongruence) then self-actualisation can’t be achieved

Question 8

Why did Rodger’s develop client-centred therapy (counselling)

Answer 8

To reduce the gap between the self concept and the ideal self

Question 9

What did Roger’s claim in his therapy

Answer 9

That many issues individuals face in adulthood are from childhood and the lack of unconditional positive regard (unconditional love) from their parents

Question 10

Advantages?

Answer 10

• holistic approach = focuses on the individual’s subjective experiences as a whole, as a method of investigating behaviour. Refreshing alternative
• it rejects attempts to break up behaviour and experience into smaller components (reductionism)

Question 11

Disadvantages?

Answer 11

• concepts such as self-actualisation aren’t clearly defined so are not measurable or open to scientific study
• cultural bias = individualistic western cultures prioritise individual success and achievement. In Collectivist cultures group success is more important. Humanistic psychologists may view individuals from collectivist cultures as less able to self-actualise, there for some way inferior