The Humanistic Approach - AQA A Level Psychology

Individuality

The belief that every individual is unique and that researchers should try not to generalise them due to the many differences they have.

Free Will

The ability for an individual to make their own choices and decisions without the influence of any other factors

Holism

Humanists believe that every aspect of an individual should be observed as there might be a contributing factor to the clients problem

Rejection of Scientific Methodology

Humanists state that the scientific method is too objective and can't be applied to humans as they think in a subjective way

Self-Actualisation

An individual's full potential or the peak existence any person can attain. It is described as the ultimate feeling of well-being and satisfaction

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

The five stages required to achieve self-actualisation. All needs need to be achieved.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs - Stage 1

Physiological needs ( Food, water, oxygen, sleep, breathing, excretion)

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs - Stage 2

Safety needs ( Security, protection, stability, employment)

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs - Stage 3

Belonging and love needs (Friendship, intimate relationship, respect from and of others, family, love)

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs - Stage 4

Self esteem (self respect, status, confidence, achievement, recognition of others)

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs - Stage 5

Self-Actualisation (Full potential, Morality, Creativity)

The Self-Concept

The way the individual perceives themselves to be

The Ideal Self

The self that an individual wants to become

The Real Self

The individual as they actually are

Congruence

A necessity to achieve self-actualization. It involves all three selves being the same. It is difficult to achieve.

Unconditional Positive Regard

Can help to achieve congruence. At some point in an individuals life they must be loved for who they are by someone else, such as family, friends or a partner

Conditions of Worth (Conditional Positive Regard)

The requirements that the individual feels they need to be loved