Humanistic Perspectives Paper

Samantha Craig

Psy/250

6/5/2016

Introduction

In the world of psychology, there are many different approaches that are thought to show understanding to the human behaviors and the reasons behind those actions. While many of them believe that there is an outside force that makes these happen there is one that does not. The Humanistic Approach believes that as humans there is a thing called free will. This means that we have the control to change our environment or change it which in turn make each one of us responsible for our very own actions thus resulting in personal growth.

Comparing person-centered theory to Hierarchy of Needs

When it comes to Roger's person-centered theory and Maslow's hierarchy of requirements, there are many similarities and differences. One of the biggest agreements within both theories is that the solution to the individual's problem is often found by concentrating on the "self." Each theory also believes that the ultimate goal is self-actualization which means "to realize fully one's potential" (Merriam-Webster, 2016). To achieve this aim, both theorists believe there are specific levels that the person must go through known as basic needs, which should be satisfied first. The second thing they have in common is trying to find out the self-worth or self-esteem and that being accepted can be very influential on the individual. Lastly, they both believed in that humans have free will, and that is what plays into personality and behaviors, not biology or the environment.

The differences between the two theories are that with the Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is based on five fundamental levels while only focusing on characteristics of the personalities that they formed. While Roger's person-centered theory focused on what conditions helped reach the end goal along with developing the client-centered therapy. Unlike many other therapies that were behaviorist based this particular humanist approach viewed the patients as clients. He believed that providing a warm, welcoming environment for those individuals who needed help on themselves would respond better than those who therapist showed empathy than those who ignored their client's inner needs.

Hierarchy of Needs influencing Personality Formation

The Hierarchy of needs was founded by Abraham Maslow these needs explain the impact that growth needs have on the formation of personality. He broke down these needs into five levels and once each need is met then the individual can move on to the next until they reach the top. The first is the basic needs known as physiological needs. This group involves food, water, and shelter. The second is the safety level which would be having the individual feel safe and secure in where they are at. As humans, it is only nature to seek aid and security not only in ourselves but also with others such as a spouse or children running to their parents. The third is called social which is the need to feel like they belonged and loved such as friendships, family, and intimacy. The fourth is known as the esteem needs; these are more based on earning respect from others and oneself. This means that what occurs is the individual focuses on achievements. The last group is self-actualization is where one realizes their full potential. There will be times when the person will need to start over if something happened and as humans the higher goal is evolving.

Person-centered theory that contributes to Personality Development

Carl Roger's is known for being the founder of the Person-centered theory which is where there are certain goals that drive the individual to achieve a rich, full life or self-actualization. In this theory, he came up with what is called the phenomenal field that is known as the self and can be affected by external objects that can be their thoughts and feelings along with others. This particular area can be affected by the individuals motivations as well as the environment around them just as the phenomenal field can affect their motivations. If a person is brought up being praised, they will end up having a strong self-concept of who they are, and therefore, their motivation is to maintain that level.

What theory do I relate to and why?

In my opinion, both of these theories have many excellent points and some faults as well. However, I would have to say that to me Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is more relatable. The way it is broken down is easier to understand, and it makes sense. The primary needs are a must and the top where self-actualization is constantly changing especially as a person gets older. Many people also need the security and safety needs met in level two and as level three states we all look to feel a part of something and for love. I have experienced how if the lower needs are changed or not met adequately then starting over is inevitable and at that point, the top level might change to be more reachable.

Conclusion

There are many different theories available on personality. However, Rogers person-centered theory and Maslow's hierarchy of needs both changed the way the character can be viewed with their Humanistic Approaches. There are many similarities between these because they are both based on the fact that every individual has free will that determines how they behave and that self-actualization is the ultimate goal that humans want to reach. Their differences have to deal with the levels that are taken and the characteristics that are focused on. Each one of these theories has created a pathway to understanding human personality and the self.

References

Cloninger, Susan (2013). Theories of Personality (6th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson