Humanistic, Transpersonal, And Existential Psychology Discus

Humanistic Transpersonal And Existential Psychologydiscussion 6a Man

Many of his colleagues considered Rollo May the father of American existential psychology. What are the key similarities and differences that you discern between May and the European humanistic perspectives about the individual and connection to others? What makes these significant?

Irvin Yalom suggests that anxiety is an existential dilemma that can emerge in a person's daily life and needs concrete decisions from an individual in order to ameliorate it. Do you agree or disagree with Yalom's position? Why? How does your personal worldview influence your stance? Explain.

Paper For Above instruction

The landscape of psychological thought in the 20th century encompasses diverse perspectives that have significantly contributed to understanding human nature and the path to psychological well-being. Among these, Rollo May, often hailed as the father of American existential psychology, and European humanistic psychologists such as Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow offer contrasting yet interrelated views on the individual and human connection. Examining their key similarities and differences reveals vital insights into how human existence and interpersonal relationships are conceptualized and valued.

Rollo May's existential psychology emphasizes the individual's confrontation with fundamental human concerns such as freedom, mortality, isolation, and meaning. His approach underscores the importance of personal responsibility and the individual's quest for authentic existence amidst anxiety and uncertainty. May viewed anxiety not merely as a maladaptive response but as an existential condition intrinsic to human life—a catalyst for growth and self-awareness. The focus on confronting, rather than avoiding, existential dilemmas aligns with his belief that authentic development arises through the individual's engagement with life's profound ambiguities.

In contrast, the European humanistic tradition, notably championed by Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, centers on the inherent goodness and potential for growth within each person. These perspectives stress the importance of unconditional positive regard, self-actualization, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. Humanistic psychology emphasizes self-awareness, the subjective experience of the individual, and the importance of authentic relationships rooted in empathy and acceptance. Unlike May’s emphasis on existential crises, humanistic approaches tend to focus on fostering a nurturing environment where individuals can realize their capabilities and achieve personal harmony.

Despite their differences, both viewpoints recognize the significance of the individual's subjective experience and the importance of autonomy. However, May's emphasis on confronting existential fears and the search for meaning introduces a more philosophical dimension, highlighting life's inherent struggles and the necessity of facing mortality. Conversely, humanistic psychology’s positive outlook underscores growth through supportive relationships and self-discovery. These distinctions are significant because they shape differing therapeutic goals: May’s approach aims to help individuals confront and find meaning amidst life's inherent anxieties, whereas humanistic therapy seeks to cultivate self-awareness and unconditional acceptance to facilitate personal growth.

Irvin Yalom’s assertion that anxiety functions as an existential dilemma requiring concrete decisions resonates with May’s emphasis on confronting fundamental human fears. Yalom posits that anxiety arises from awareness of mortality, freedom, isolation, and meaninglessness—core concerns in existential thought. According to Yalom, addressing these fears through deliberate choices enables individuals to transcend anxiety and find purpose. I agree with this perspective, as it aligns with the understanding that authentic engagement with existential realities fosters resilience and psychological growth.

From my personal worldview, which values the integration of philosophical reflection and practical decision-making, Yalom’s view underscores the importance of accepting existential truths and actively choosing one’s life trajectory. Believing that meaning is constructed through personal responsibility, I see anxiety not as something to eliminate but as a signal indicating the need for deliberate choices. This stance encourages embracing life's uncertainties and facing fears with courage, ultimately leading to a more authentic existence.

Recognizing the significance of confronting existential dilemmas complements humanistic values of authenticity and self-actualization. It suggests that meaningful growth involves not avoiding fears but engaging with them thoughtfully, reinforcing the importance of deliberate decision-making in the face of life's inherent uncertainties.

References

• Boss, M. (2000). Chairside therapy: Role conflicts and the psychologist. American Psychological Association.
• Bugental, J. F. T. (1984). The art of the psychotherapist. Norton & Company.
• May, R. (1983). The meaning of anxiety. W. W. Norton & Company.
• Yalom, I. D. (1980). Existential psychotherapy. Basic Books.
• Maslow, A. H. (1968). Toward a psychology of being. Van Nostrand Reinhold.
• Rogers, C. R. (1961). On becoming a person. Houghton Mifflin.
• Frankl, V. E. (1959). Man's search for meaning. Beacon Press.
• Kirkland, S. (2004). The philosophy of humanistic psychology. Sage Publications.
• Yalom, I. D. (2008). Staring at the sun: Overcoming the terror of death. Jossey-Bass.
• May, R. (2005). Love and will. W. W. Norton & Company.