Humanistic Psychology

Home > Psychology > History of Psychology > Humanistic Psychology

Humanistic psychology emerged in the 1950s and emphasized the potential for growth and self-actualization in individuals. This approach focused on subjective experience and personal growth.

"Humanistic psychology is a psychological perspective that arose in the mid-20th century."
"Humanistic psychology arose in answer to two theories: Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory and B. F. Skinner's behaviorism."
"Abraham Maslow established the need for a 'third force' in psychology."
"The school of thought of humanistic psychology gained traction due to key figure Abraham Maslow in the 1950s during the time of the humanistic movement."
- "To understand people, ourselves and others, as a whole greater than the sum of their parts." - "To acknowledge the relevance and significance of the full life history of an individual." - "To acknowledge the importance of intentionality in human existence." - "To recognize the importance of an end goal of life for a healthy person."
"It is linked to the emerging field of transpersonal psychology."
"This type of therapy encourages a self-awareness and reflexivity that helps the client change their state of mind and behavior from one set of reactions to a healthier one with more productive self-awareness and thoughtful actions."
"This approach allows the merging of mindfulness and behavioral therapy, with positive social support."
"The benefits of humanistic therapy are described as having a 'crucial opportunity to lead our troubled culture back to its own healthy path.' We validate our clients' human potential."
"In the 20th century, humanistic psychology was referred to as the 'third force' in psychology."
"Principal professional organizations in the US are the Association for Humanistic Psychology and the Society for Humanistic Psychology (Division 32 of the American Psychological Association)."
"In Britain, there is the UK Association for Humanistic Psychology Practitioners."
"It imposes ideologies of others upon the client less than other therapeutic practices. Freedom to choose is maximized."
"To acknowledge the relevance and significance of the full life history of an individual."
"Humanistic psychology also acknowledges spiritual aspiration as an integral part of the psyche."
"To understand people, ourselves and others, as a whole greater than the sum of their parts."
"Abraham Maslow established the need for a 'third force' in psychology."
"More than any other therapy, Humanistic-Existential therapy models democracy."
"Freedom to choose is maximized. We validate our clients' human potential."
"The benefits of humanistic therapy are described as having a 'crucial opportunity to lead our troubled culture back to its own healthy path."