Existential Therapy and Humanistic-Existential Theories

This set of flashcards covers essential vocabulary and concepts related to Existential Therapy and Humanistic-Existential Theories.

Third Force

A psychological movement that focuses on human strengths and free will, emerging in response to behaviorism and psychoanalysis.

Self-actualizing tendency

The inherent tendency of people to reach their full potential and grow in positive ways.

Phenomenological perspective

An approach emphasizing the subjective reality and individual experiences.

Existential anxiety

The normal sense of unease that arises from concerns about existence when living authentically.

Neurotic anxiety

An out-of-proportion anxiety that indicates individuals are not living authentically and are not taking responsibility.

Dasein

A German term for 'being-in-the-world' that involves understanding oneself in relation to nature, others, self, and spirituality.

Ultimate concerns

The inevitable life challenges faced by individuals, such as isolation, meaninglessness, freedom, and death.

Logotherapy

A therapeutic approach developed by Viktor Frankl, focusing on finding meaning in life experiences.

Symbolic Growth Experience

A therapeutic procedure emphasizing significant life moments that create personal meaning and awareness.

Therapeutic goals of Existential Therapy

To help clients find meaning, gain awareness and control, promote authentic living, and become more actualized.

Therapist's role

To be a fellow traveler, supportive, empathetic, and to facilitate client awareness without diagnosis.

I-You relationship

A type of relationship in therapy where therapist and client engage authentically and meaningfully.

Existential Therapy applications

Effective for chronic depression, grief, PTSD, agoraphobia, and helping with addiction by creating personal meaning.

Holistic approach

An integrated approach that addresses common human concerns and needs.

Terror management theory

A theory suggesting that human behaviors are motivated by the need to manage the fear of death and to find meaning.