2.7.7. Humanistic Approach

The humanistic theories are mainly developed in response to Freud’s theory. Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow have particularly contributed to the development of humanistic perspective on personality. We will briefly examine their theories.

The humanistic approach to psychology arose as a reaction against the deterministic views of Freud's psychodynamic theory. It emphasizes individual potential and stresses the importance of personal growth. This approach values feelings and thoughts from the individual perspective, focusing on concepts like self-actualization. Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow are key figures in humanistic psychology, with Rogers proposing a person-centered therapy focusing on individual experiences and growth, while Maslow introduced a hierarchy of needs that highlights the progression towards self-actualization.

Think of a seed planted in the soil. Just as a seed needs the right conditions—light, water, and nutrients—to grow into a plant, individuals require supportive environments to realize their full potential. In a nurturing environment, a person can flourish and achieve their goals, much like that seed growing into a healthy plant.

The most important idea proposed by Rogers is that of a fully functioning person. He believes that fulfilment is the motivating force for personality development. People try to express their capabilities, potentials and talents to the fullest extent possible.

Rogers emphasizes that a fully functioning person is someone who is not constrained by societal expectations but is true to their experiences and feelings. Fulfillment comes from realizing one's own potential and embracing personal growth. Rogers argues that when individuals accept themselves as they are and align their real self with their ideal self, they achieve a state of happiness and well-being.

Imagine a person who loves painting but works in a corporate job. If they dedicate time to painting while balancing their career, they are practicing self-actualization. When they accept their passion and weave it into their life, they become a fully functioning individual, realizing their full potential as both an artist and a professional.

Maslow has given a detailed account of psychologically healthy people in terms of their attainment of self-actualisation, a state in which people have reached their own fullest potential.

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a theoretical framework that categorizes human needs into five levels, starting from basic physiological needs at the bottom to self-actualization at the top. He explains that individuals must satisfy lower-order needs, such as safety and belonging, to be motivated to seek higher-order needs like esteem and self-actualization. Only when these foundational needs are met can a person strive for personal growth and realize their full capabilities.

Consider an individual who dreams of becoming a musician. They first need to have a safe environment (stability), supportive relationships (belonging), and recognition (esteem) before they can fully focus on honing their musical talent and achieving their dream. Without fulfilling these earlier needs, it would be challenging to pursue their passion genuinely.

The humanistic theorists have indicated that healthy personality lies in not mere adjustment to society. It involves a quest to know oneself deeply and to be true to one’s own feelings without disguise, and to be oneself in the here-and-now.

The humanistic approach posits that true health stems from self-awareness and authenticity—understanding one's own feelings, strengths, and weaknesses. This involves living in the moment (being present), rather than being constrained by past experiences or future anxieties. Healthy individuals strive for personal growth and authenticity rather than merely conforming to societal norms or expectations.

Picture a person who decides to pursue a career in dance despite societal pressure to choose a ‘stable’ job. This person knows their true passion, embraces it, and works towards it, showing their commitment to authenticity. Their fulfillment from pursuing their passion signifies a healthy personality, as they are not swayed by the expectations of others.

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