Chapter 2.4

The Humanistic-Existential Model

Overview: The humanistic-existential model emphasizes philosophical goals of human existence such as self-awareness, values, meaning in life, and freedom of choice.
- Human problems understood through these broader dimensions.

Table 2-2: Comparing Various Models
- Causes of Dysfunction:
  - Biological: Malfunction
  - Psychodynamic: Conflicts
  - Cognitive: Maladaptive thinking
  - Humanistic: Self-deceit
  - Existential: Avoidance of responsibility
- Research Support: Strong for biological, modest for psychodynamic, weak for humanistic and existential.
- Patient Designation: Terms vary (e.g., patient, client).
- Therapy Goals: Vary across models, focus on functional repair, authentic life, and cultural awareness.

Core Beliefs:
- Humans have an inherent tendency toward friendliness and constructive behavior.
- Self-actualization: Fulfilling potential for goodness and growth.
- Requires honest self-recognition of strengths and weaknesses, and establishment of personal values.
- Contributions to societal welfare: Self-actualization leads to loving and courageous behavior.
Note on Self-Actualization Through Giving:
- 70% of adults in the U.S. contribute to charity annually.
- 35% volunteer their time.

Core Views:
- Accurate self-awareness and living authentically are crucial for psychological well-being.
- Unlike humanists, existentialists view freedom as both a burden and a potential for creating meaning.
- Those who avoid responsibility often feel helpless and live inauthentic lives.
- Pervasive feelings include anxiety, frustration, and alienation.

Historical Context:
- Humanistic and existential theories rose during the 1960s and 1970s amid societal changes.
- Influence persists in clinical work, including positive psychology.

Theory Overview:
- Rogers posited childhood experiences shape self-worth through positive regard from parents.
- Unconditional positive regard leads to unconditional self-regard and self-actualization.
- Conditions of worth arise when children feel valued only under certain conditions, leading to a distorted self-image.
Client-Centered Therapy:
- Create a supportive climate for clients to explore and accept themselves.
- Key qualities of therapists include:
  - Unconditional positive regard
  - Accurate empathy
  - Genuineness
Example Interaction:
- The client articulates self-criticism; the therapist reflects empathy, encouraging self-acceptance.

Overview:
- Founded by Fritz Perls, it emphasizes self-recognition and acceptance through challenging techniques.
- Focus on present experience; role-playing utilized for emotional expression.
Techniques:
- Intense emotional expression through physical actions (e.g., banging pillows).

Historical Context:
- Past view of religion as negative; shift towards acceptance within mental health.
- Spirituality correlated with various mental health benefits.
Study Findings:
- Individuals with positive religious beliefs show lower rates of loneliness, anxiety, and depression.
- Spirituality may not be the sole causal factor; further research needed.

Existential Dysfunction:
- Rooted in self-deception and avoidance of responsibility.
- Individuals often feel overwhelmed, leading to inauthentic existence filled with negative emotions.
Therapeutic Approach:
- Encourage clients to accept responsibility and recognize their freedom.
- Emphasis on developing meaning in life.

Appeal and Strengths:
- Addresses unique philosophical challenges of human existence.
- Focus on essential factors for effective functioning: self-acceptance, personal meaning, and values.
Research Limitations:
- Difficulties in studying abstract issues.
- Gradual acceptance of research within the field may lead to insights.
Summary:
- Both humanists and existentialists believe in the potential for individuals to grow and change despite past challenges.