1. Personality: Humanistic Theory
By: Mrs. Andrews

2. Humanistic Theory
We are positively motivated and progress towards higher levels of functioning
Stresses potential for growth and change
Stresses present over the past

3. Alfred Adler
Classified as a psychoanalyst but is the “father” of humanism

4. Abraham Maslow Arranged human motives from primitive, to complex
Higher motives emerge only after more basic ones have been satisfied

5. Maslow’s Theory
Highest motive

6. Carl Rogers
Everyone is born with innate capabilities or potentials- a genetic blueprint
Goal in life is to fulfill this genetic blueprint – to become the best of what we are capable of becoming
This push towards fulfillment is called actualization tendency

7. Rogers (continued)
But humans have self images or self-concepts of themselves…
When our self concept is closely matched with our inborn capabilities, we are likely to become a fully functioning person

8. Rogers (continued)
People tend to become more fully functioning if they are brought up with unconditional positive regard- the experiences of being treated with warmth, respect, acceptance and love

9. Rogers (continued)
But parents and others adults offer children: conditional positive regard (I’ll love you if…)
Here, children change their self concept to include what you “ought” to be
When people lose sight of their inborn potential, they become constricted, rigid and defensive

10. Humanistic Theories and Jaylene
Humanistic psych. would focus on:
Jay’s discrepancy between her self concept and inborn capabilities
Unhappiness stems from her inability to be who she really is
Father is the source of positive regard

11. Criticisms of Humanistic Theory
Difficult to verify scientifically
Too optimistic?
Doesn’t account for narcissism, self-centeredness
Too Western?