Within the world of psychology, different models have emerged over the years. that will seek to explain human behavior and mind with the aim and objective of knowing more about human beings. In this way, humanistic psychology has had an important and influential role in everything that has to do with the field of psychology.
In the following article we are going to talk to you in more detail about this current and how it directly influences one's own psychology.
How humanistic psychology arises
Humanistic psychology will emerge in the mid-XNUMXth century as a response to the reductionist vision that psychology offered about the human being. Abraham Marlow emphasized self-realization and human motivations. The approach that he managed to give thanks to this current, managed to establish a new framework to understand development and growth on a personal level.
Carl rogers He was another of the promoters of what is known as humanistic psychology. He proposed a model in which the professional manages to create a favorable environment to facilitate the growth of the human being. Carl Rogers defended the self-realization of individuals, especially when addressing everything related to mental health.
Main characteristics of humanistic psychology
This current of psychology has a series of characteristics that are worth reviewing and highlighting:
- It contemplates the human being as a whole and in a global way. Important aspects of the person such as the body, emotions or thoughts have the same relevance. All these elements are related to each other and are key when it comes to the person finding themselves.
- It is key relationships with other peoples so that the development of the individual is the best possible.
- Human beings have sufficient capacity to make their own decisions and to take responsibility for them. The psychologist is a professional who serves as a tool so that the person can develop on a personal level.
- We must give the importance it has to the inner wisdom of each person. You have to trust this wisdom to be able to heal completely and be happy in life.
- The purpose of humanistic psychology is none other than to promote the expression of feelings and emotions through dialogue. An enormous emphasis must be placed on the inner self and the expression of one's own feelings.
- Humanistic psychology will propose a form of therapy in which the professional offers an environment of empathy and authenticity in order to achieve personal growth. The therapy itself focuses entirely on the person themselves, thoroughly analyzing both their goals and experiences.
- The existential components of the person are key to this current of psychology.
The importance of personal growth in humanistic psychology
Humanistic psychology emphasizes the importance of people's growth, their optimal development and their ability to make certain decisions. It focuses on self-knowledge and self-esteem in order to achieve a certain happiness and well-being in life. This current encourages personal responsibility and self-realization both emotionally, intellectually and spiritually.
The concept of the person
In this current of psychology the concept of person is key and fundamental. The human being is considered as a unique being capable of making decisions of all kinds. On the one hand, the importance of subjectivity and experience at the individual level is highlighted. The notion of the self is understood as a process of change as well as growth.
Criticisms of humanistic psychology
Despite the influence it has had on the field of psychology, this current has had to face numerous criticisms, especially in everything related to its lack of scientific rigor. The difficulty that exists when measuring concepts such as self-realization has caused its own validity to be questioned. Criticism also emphasizes the fact that there is an overly optimistic view of the human being, without taking into account the conflicts and struggles innate to human nature.
How humanistic psychology can be put into practice
There are a series of tips and guidelines that can help people put the aforementioned humanistic psychology into practice:
- It is key to be able to discover own strengths.
- Develop a vision in the best possible way of what you want to achieve or achieve.
- Consider own beliefs and values.
- We must pursue experiences that provide happiness and joy.
- You have to accept yourself and to other people.
- Apart from the objectives to be met, it is important to focus on enjoying of personal experiences.
- Interest to learn new stuff.
- Having a positive thought.
As humanistic psychology has become clear emphasizes the individual and the importance of controlling your emotional health. In addition to this, this current takes into account environmental influences and their importance in people's experiences.
Ultimately, humanistic psychology focuses squarely on the human being and conceives it as a global entity in which all elements are equally important. Considers the person as a unique being who is directly responsible for his or her experiences and capable of developing on a personal level.
Despite the criticisms that may exist, humanistic psychology is still relevant when looking for a life that is meaningful as well as satisfying. This current helps propel people to explore their authenticity and pursue self-realization in a world that is continually changing.