Download Humanist Psychologists

Humanism Theory
This theory developed out of the patient relationship idea of therapy.
Humanists believe that clients should be very involved in his or her own
recovery, rather than relying on the therapist’s interpretation of the issues.
This approach empowered the client. Research methods are more
qualitative than quantitative such as diaries, journals and interviews.
Humanist Psychologists
1. Abraham Maslow
He created “Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs”. This pyramid was structured so
that a person must fulfill their basic needs before higher-order needs
become important. Each need must be met before moving onto the next
need. The hierarchy of needs are as follows (with basic needs being at the
bottom of the pyramid)
Physiological Needs (food, water, shelter, clothing)
Safety Needs (security, safety)
Belongingness and love needs (intimate relationships, friends, sense of
connection)
Esteem Needs (confidence, feeling of accomplishment, respect of others)
Self- Actualization- Achieiving ones full potential and purpose)
2. Victor Frankl
Frankls’ theory grew out of his experience in Nazi camps. He determined
that basic needs were met in Auschwitz but some survived and others
didn’t. He found the survivors’ had “something to hold onto, whether it was
hope or wanting to return to their former lives. Even great faith mad some
people surivive.
Frankl developed logotherapy. A form of psychotherapy that tries to help
the patient find the aim and meaning of life as a human, without accessing
the medical aspect of mental health. He believed that people who can’t find
meanings in their lives will feel empty and possible lead to feelings of
depression.. He believed people had free will and they can choose how to
respond to situations and thus have power to shape your life.
3. Carl Rogers
He developed Client centered therapy that focuses on the present and
future rather than the past. This therapy provides a comfortable
environment where people are allowed to explore their attitudes and
emotions on an issue, which will lead to them discovering the underlying
emotions and motivations for those attitudes. The therapist guides the
client but doesn’t interpret for the client. This approach has become the
basis for modern day psychology.