1. Humanistic approach Self Actualisation and Marslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Sophie, Amelia, Jess

2. Assumptions
Humanistic psychology focuses on the whole person, their view point and the uniqueness of each individual. Definitions: Self-actualisation: ‘An innate tendency we all possess as human beings to become the best we can be in all aspects of personality and intellectual, social and emotional life’ (Stretch and Whitehouse, 2010)

3. Theories Abraham Maslow (1908-1970)
An American psychologist that believed that we are all seeking to become the best we can possibly be – spiritually, physically, emotionally and intellectually. This is called self-actualisation, he constructed a theory known as hierarchy of needs, with this he explains that every individual needs certain basic needs to be met.
(Stretch and Whitehouse, 2010)

4. Strengths and Limitations
Studies the whole person not just a part of them
Helps provide a more holistic view of human behaviour
Can gain a better insight into a individuals behaviour
Ignores biology
Unscientific
Ignores unconscious mind
Cannot objectively measure self-actualization
(Simply Psychology, 2015)

5. Treatment Humanistic therapy
This helps individuals understand their feelings.
Gains a sense of meaning in life.
Reach self-actualisation.
It adopts a holistic approach.
Its used to treat disorders such as:
Depression
Anxiety
Personality disorders
Various addiction
(Boundless, 2016)

6. References
Stretch. B and Whitehouse. M. (2010) Health and Social care level 3 BTEC National Harlow, Essex. Pearson Education Limited Page 348
Boundless (2016) Humanistic Therapy (online) available at: accessed 13th March 2017
Simply Psychology (2015) Humanistic Approach (online) available at: accessed 13th March 2017