Key Principles

• Self-actualization: Inner drive to become the best version of oneself.
• Free will: Humans are not controlled by fate or past—they choose.
• Holism: Study the whole person, not just parts or symptoms.
• Subjective experience: How you see the world matters more than external reality.
• Inherent worth: Every person has value, dignity, and the potential to grow.

Major Theorists

Carl Rogers – Person-Centered Theory

• People are driven by an actualizing tendency—a natural urge to grow and improve.
• The self-concept is how a person sees themselves.
  • Real self: Who you actually are.
  • Ideal self: Who you want to be.
  • Incongruence: Misalignment between the two = distress.
• Healthy growth requires:
  • Unconditional Positive Regard: Being valued without conditions.
  • Empathy: Deep, nonjudgmental understanding.
  • Genuineness: Openness and honesty from others (especially therapists).

Abraham Maslow – Hierarchy of Needs

• Human needs are arranged in levels:
  1. Physiological needs: Food, water, shelter.
  2. Safety needs: Security, stability.
  3. Love and belonging: Relationships, community.
  4. Esteem: Achievement, respect.
  5. Self-actualization: Reaching one’s full potential.
• Must meet lower needs before moving up.
• Self-actualized people are authentic, creative, ethical, and accepting.

Humanistic Therapy

• Therapist creates a safe, nonjudgmental space.
• Goal: Help client align their real self and ideal self.
• Techniques:
  • Active listening
  • Reflection
  • Non-directive support (client leads the conversation)

Criticisms

• Too idealistic or unscientific.
• Lacks measurable constructs.
• May downplay real suffering or mental illness.
• Still, it transformed therapy, education, and our view of mental health by putting the human back in psychology.

Applications and Impact

• Education: Focus on student choice, creativity, and emotional well-being.
• Workplace: Emphasizes autonomy, purpose, and personal growth.
• Healthcare: Treat the person, not just the symptoms.
• Positive Psychology: Modern branch influenced by humanistic ideas—focuses on happiness, strengths, and meaning.