Humanistic Theory Essay

1469 Words6 Pages
Humanism gives us a positive view of human beings and of their significant competence to be self-determining. This paper will explain how humanistic psychology, also known as the third force, is an approach that focuses on the basic concept that individuals are good and will seek out self-actualization but that finding self-fulfillment can be impacted by environment. The humanistic theory is guided by the belief of free will of human beings. This strong belief in free will has both positive and negative implications for the humanistic approach. The paper will show both positive and negative results that relate to the author's own insights and individualization. This paper will also discuss the criticisms of this theory and the individuals need for self-actualization. Along with this discussion will be a brief description of two of the influential founders of this theory. Humanistic theory is a theory of its own caliber and has raised the standard in psychoanalysis and behaviorism while focusing more realistically on human behavior. Humanistic psychology is young compared to the age of other approaches and theories, but very different in the basis that the approach focuses on individual control and free will or choices and steers away from the ideas that all human behavior is based around pleasure. The humanistic psychological approach is one of personal perception, with the goal being to fulfill one’s potential, and to change one’s behavior outside. Humanistic Theory Defined As defined by Robert S. Feldman, “the humanistic theory is the conscious, self motivated ability to change and improve.” (Feldman, 2009, p.401) Humanistic theorists believe that along with peoples unique creative impulses make up the core of human personality (Feldman, 2009, p.401). Foundations of Theory The founding fathers of the humanistic psychoanalysis became dissatisfied with
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