Lecture 4: historical foundations of psychology

What is the humanistic perspective in psychology?

A perspective that focuses on individual growth, free will, and the inherent goodness of humans. Emphasizes personal meaning, self-actualisation, and living authentically 🌈🧠

Who were the key figures in the humanistic movement?

• Carl Rogers: developed client-centered therapy, focusing on unconditional positive regard 💗
  - Abraham Maslow: created the hierarchy of needs, with self-actualisation at the top 🔺
  - Gordon Allport: focused on individual traits and the uniqueness of personality ✨

What is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs?

A motivational theory that suggests we move through levels of needs, from basic survival to self-actualisation. The levels: physiological → safety → love/belonging → esteem → self-actualisation.

What is positive psychology?

A branch of psychology that studies what makes life worth living—focusing on wellbeing, strengths, happiness, and flourishing, not just fixing mental illness 🌟🧘‍♀

How does positive psychology view mental health vs mental illness?

It sees mental health as more than the absence of mental illness—it's about thriving, not just surviving. You can be symptom-free and still struggle, or have challenges but live meaningfully.

What is the broaden and build theory?

A theory by Barbara Fredrickson that says positive emotions (like joy, love, curiosity) help us broaden our thinking and build psychological resources (resilience, social connections, skills). 🌱🧠

What were the findings from experiments on broaden and build theory?

Experiments showed that positive emotions enhance creativity, problem-solving, and social bonds. Over time, these emotions help people build lasting resources for wellbeing. 💖🔧