Humanistic Psychology: An Approach Focused On The Individual And Their Emotions
According to the American Humanist Association, humanistic psychology is an approach to psychology that emphasizes the study of human beings as whole people, not just a collection of symptoms, and that within them lies responsibility and the ability to change.
This approach was originally called “humanism” and has its roots in existential philosophy. Emphasizes subjective meaning, self-actualization, and personal responsibility
It has also been called “the Third Force” in psychology because it is a perspective that is independent of behaviorism and psychoanalysis.
The term “humanist” was first used by Abraham Maslow in 1943 to describe his own theories that were based not on the mechanistic models of behaviorism or psychoanalysis, but on what he called “human potentialities.”
The humanistic approach to mental health has been around for decades. Is a way of thinking about mental health that emphasizes the importance of the individual, their uniqueness, and their capacity for change It is an approach that values ​​people’s emotions and feelings in a different way from other approaches, both in the importance given to them and in their understanding.
According to this approach, emotions and feelings are an essential part of the human experience and play an important role in the way people develop and relate to the world.
The humanistic approach differs mainly from psychoanalysis because focuses more on the present and the here and now, instead of in the past and in the influence of the unconscious. It also differs from the cognitive behavioral stream because it focuses more on the person’s subjective experience and how they feel and experience the world, rather than on observable behavior and underlying cognitive processes.
Additionally, the humanistic approach believes that people have a natural tendency toward self-growth and fulfillment, and that they have the ability to make decisions and solve problems for themselves. Therefore, the humanistic therapist focuses on supporting the client in their process of self-knowledge and helping them find solutions and meaning in their life.
By valuing people’s emotions and feelings and focusing on the person’s subjective experience, the humanistic approach has provided a framework of understanding and a unique perspective for treating people who have experienced trauma and emotional difficulties
The humanistic therapist may use techniques such as client-centered therapy and gestalt therapy to help people understand and process their emotions and find meaning and purpose in their lives. These techniques can be especially effective in helping people overcome traumas such as abuse, violence, and loss, and can provide a solid foundation for long-term personal growth and emotional well-being.
Additionally, the humanistic approach has also contributed to a greater focus on mental health care in general and the importance of empathy and human connection in the recovery process.
critics
In psychology, as in any science, it is important not to be passionately biased towards a model or technique 100%, which is why I highlight the most common criticisms of this approach:
Some critics argue that the humanistic approach is not supported by scientific evidence and has not been rigorously tested. evaluated through controlled research (I invite you to read the sources at the end of the article in order to change that negative paradigm).
2. Lack of focus on observable behavior
Some argue that the humanistic approach focuses too much on the subjective experience of the person and not enough in observable behavior and underlying cognitive processes.
3. Lack of focus on the role of the unconscious
Some critics argue that the humanistic approach does not pay enough attention to the role of the unconscious in human behavior and problem solving.
4. Lack of a solid theoretical framework
Some argue that the humanistic approach lacks a solid and coherent theoretical framework and that It’s too broad and vague to be useful in clinical practice.
Future perspectives of humanism
It is important to note that these criticisms are not universal and that the humanistic approach has proven effective in many cases and has provided a valuable framework for the treatment of mental health problems. However, it is important to consider these criticisms and keep in mind that no therapeutic approach is perfect and that it may be helpful to use a variety of approaches depending on individual needs and circumstances.
I believe that it is difficult to predict with certainty how exactly the humanistic approach to mental health will evolve in the future, as it depends on many factors, such as trends and advances in the field of mental health, the demand for certain treatments and approaches, and the interest and support of professionals and organizations. However, it can be said that the humanistic approach remains an important and relevant current in the field of mental health and is likely to remain so in the future.
The humanistic approach is based on the idea that Each person is unique and has the potential for growth and development Therefore, it may continue to be used in different contexts and with different populations, such as in the treatment of mental disorders, in the promotion of mental health and well-being, and in crisis intervention.
In terms of impact, the humanistic approach can have a positive impact on people’s mental health by promoting autonomy and independence and by emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and self-acceptance. Additionally, the humanistic approach can help people develop skills in problem-solving and making decisions for themselves, which can be beneficial for their psychological well-being and their ability to deal with challenges and difficult situations in the future.
Conclusion
The conclusion is that humanistic psychotherapy is a great way to start your journey of self-discovery It is a holistic approach to mental health and can be used for many purposes.
Humanistic psychotherapy not only helps treat psychological problems, but also helps a person’s personal development. This therapy will allow you to explore your inner self and discover what is in your subconscious.
