Writer identification in hop dead literature

Humanistic Psychology

Humanistic psychology has made a tremendous impact on the overall field of psychology and the social sciences in general. Since Rogers first introduced the concepts of unconditional positive regard, the ideals of professional competence in psychotherapy have changed towards client-centered perspectives and practices (McArthur & Cooper, 2017). However, humanistic psychology often eschews quantitative research methods, diverges considerably from the views in cognitive psychology, psychoanalysis and behaviorism, and has been occasionally perceived or portrayed of as too soft to be relevant to the social sciences (Wong, 2017). More recently, humanistic psychologists have gained ground in acquiring greater credibility for the contributions of their paradigm. In particular, humanistic psychology has a greater potential to offer multimodal interventions than other approaches to psychology, For example, psychological wellness is conceived of in a broad-minded manner encompassing multiple domains of life including the interpersonal, community, occupational, psychological, physical, and economic (Duff, Rubenstein & Prilleltensky, 2016). Because humanistic psychology values self-actualization, transpersonal care, and cross-cultural understanding, it has a valuable role to play in the social sciences.

In fact, Wong (2017) suggests a second wave of humanistic psychology that can remedy the problems extant in the realms of cognitive-behaviorism and other forms that often neglect the whole person. Moreover, humanistic psychology calls upon practitioners to operate with strong ethical standards that respect client autonomy and the interest in pursuing a future-oriented, solution-focused plan for client healing or life coaching. Humanistic psychological interventions can also be integrated well with other healing modalities, combined with other psychological interventions as well as with pharmacological or medical treatments.

Humanistic Psychology Theory

Humanistic psychology has been driven by a set of core theories that have defined the field. The luminary theorists in early humanistic psychology include Carl Rogers, Abraham Maslow, Rollo May, and Erich Fromm. Car Rogers is most known for his contributions in developing what is known as client-centered therapy. Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs model has practically defined humanistic psychology, and remains one of the most influential contributions overall in the social sciences. Coinciding with other developmental theories, the Maslow needs hierarchy presents growth and development in terms of existential longings and the motivation to fulfill needs through functional or dysfunctional behaviors (Rowan, 2015). Maslow also contributed the theory of self-actualization. The focus of humanistic psychology since Rogers and Maslow has remained on the future, rather than on the past as with Freudian theories. Both Rogers and Maslow resisted the urge to pathologize the human condition, instead emphasizing the inherent meaning in all facets of life, including pain and suffering. Some humanistic theorists like William James focused almost exclusively on the inner life of the person, almost to the exclusion of behavioral elements (Arons & Richards, 2014).

Yet as Arons & Richards (2014) point out, it is important to remember that not all humanistic psychologists had as positive view of human nature as Maslow and Rogers. Rollo May, for example, recognized that free will and one’s inner daimon could lead one to pursue destructive or self-destructive behaviors (Rowan, 2015). Humanistic psychology has never been monolithic, but does embrace all aspects of the human experience including spiritual, emotional, and other intangible, immeasurable elements of life. All the main theories of humanistic psychology encourage self-awareness as well as a solution-focused, positive and forward-thinking approach to therapy and healing. Issues like creativity, fulfillment, personal growth and development, and spiritual awareness are also treated within the province of humanistic psychology.

References

Arons, M. & Richards, R. (2014). Two noble insurgencies. In Schneider, Pierson & Bugenthal (Eds.) T he Handbook of Humanistic Psychology. Sage.

Duff, J., Rubenstein, C., & Prilleltensky, I. (2016). Wellness and fairness: Two core values for humanistic psychology. The Humanistic Psychologist, 44(2), 127-141.

McArthur, K. & Cooper, M. (2017). The future of humanistic psychology : autonomy, relatedness and competence. In: Humanistic Psychology. Routledge, New York

Rowan, J. (2015). Ordinary Ecstasy. Routledge.

Wong, P.T. (2017). Meaning-centered approach to research and therapy, second wave positive psychology, and the future of humanistic psychology. The Humanistic Psychologist, 45(3), 207-216