Humanistic psychology, also known as humanistic approach, is a psychological perspective that focuses on the study of the whole person, rather than simply the behaviors or mental processes. It emerged in the 1950s as a reaction against the more deterministic and reductionist approaches of behaviorism and psychoanalysis. This perspective places emphasis on the uniqueness of the individual and views people as inherently good, with a strong potential for personal growth and self-actualization.

There are several key principles that underpin humanistic psychology, which are essential in understanding this approach.

1. Holism: Humanistic psychology is based on the concept of holism, which suggests that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. This means that individuals should be viewed as a whole rather than focusing on specific aspects such as behavior or cognition. Humanistic psychologists believe that people must be studied within the context of their own lives, experiences, and their environment.

2. Self-Actualization: The principle of self-actualization is at the core of humanistic psychology. It is the innate drive of every individual to achieve their full potential and become the best version of themselves. According to humanistic psychologists, a person must satisfy their basic needs, such as food, shelter, love, and belongingness, before they can focus on personal growth and self-actualization.

For instance, a homeless person may struggle to fulfill their basic needs, such as shelter and food, which in turn may hinder their ability to focus on their personal growth. Therefore, self-actualization can only be achieved once an individual’s basic needs are met.

3. Subjective Experience: Humanistic psychology recognizes the subjective experience of an individual and considers it as the most vital element in understanding their behavior. Every person’s experience is unique and should be respected and acknowledged. Humanistic psychologists encourage people to explore their feelings and thoughts in a non-judgmental and accepting environment, as this can lead to a better understanding of oneself and others.

For example, a person may constantly feel anxious and stressed, and humanistic psychology would focus on understanding the individual’s subjective experience and how this affects their behavior, rather than labeling them with a specific disorder.

4. Personal Responsibility: Humanistic psychology holds the belief that individuals are responsible for their own choices and actions, and they have the power to change their lives. This principle is also known as self-determination, and it highlights the importance of personal responsibility in achieving personal growth and self-actualization.

Humanistic psychologists believe that individuals have the power to make their own choices and decisions, and they must take responsibility for the consequences of those choices. For example, if a person wants to improve their mental health, they must take action and seek help rather than expecting someone else to do it for them.

5. Growth and Development: Humanistic psychology emphasizes the importance of growth and development in people’s lives. It views individuals as constantly evolving and capable of personal growth throughout their lifespan.

For instance, a person who was shy and introverted in their younger years may go through personal growth experiences and become more confident and outgoing as they age. Humanistic psychologists believe that personal growth and development are ongoing processes that can continue throughout a person’s entire life.

In conclusion, the key principles of humanistic psychology highlight the importance of understanding an individual’s lived experience, personal responsibility, self-actualization, and growth and development. This perspective places value on the uniqueness of each person and their potential to reach their full potential. By considering these principles, humanistic psychology not only provides a framework for understanding human behavior but also offers practical tools for personal growth and self-actualization.