I Need This Done Within 8 Hours Bid Only If You Can Fix
I Need This To Be Done Within 8 Hours Bid Only If You Can Finish It T
I need this to be done within 8 hours. For your second project, you will explore in more depth a psychological theory/theorist. In your paper you will need to: 1. Briefly summarize the theory/theorist in terms of contribution to the school of thought /10 2. Discuss the time period in which it was in favor and how the theorist was received by contemporary peers /10. 3. Discuss what the theorist and theory ultimately say about human nature/behavior, especially in terms of free will/choice over actions /10. 4. Discuss why this theory makes the most sense to you and provide specific examples from your own observations /10. 5. Discuss the shortcomings and criticism of the theory/theorist /10. Length: 2 1/2 to 3 pages.
Paper For Above instruction
The psychological theory I have chosen to explore in depth is Carl Rogers’ Humanistic Theory of Personality. This theory emphasizes the inherent goodness of people and their natural tendency toward growth and self-actualization. Rogers’ contribution lies in his focus on the conscious experience of individuals and the importance of the self in personality development. His work contributed significantly to the humanistic school of thought, which shifted away from deterministic views of psychology toward a more optimistic perspective centered on personal growth and free will.
During the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1950s to the 1970s, Rogers’ theory gained prominence as a response to psychoanalytic and behaviorist approaches. His emphasis on empathy, unconditional positive regard, and the client-centered therapy model challenged traditional perspectives and was well-received among psychologists seeking a more holistic understanding of human behavior. The era’s cultural shift toward individualism and personal freedom aligned well with Rogers’ ideas, and he was recognized as one of the most influential psychologists of his time.
Rogers’ theory fundamentally presents human nature as inherently good and capable of growth if provided with the right conditions. Unlike deterministic behaviorists or psychoanalysts who viewed humans as driven by unconscious drives or conditioned responses, Rogers believed that humans possess free will and the capacity for self-determination. The concept of the "self" and the importance of congruence between the self and experience are central to his theory. He posited that when individuals experience unconditional positive regard and acceptance, they are more likely to pursue personal growth and authentic self-expression, emphasizing the importance of choice in human behavior.
Personally, Rogers’ emphasis on human potential and free will resonates with my observations of human behavior. For instance, I have noticed that even individuals facing significant challenges tend to flourish when supported by understanding and acceptance. An example from my own life is witnessing friends who, when accepted without judgment, are more motivated to make positive changes and pursue their goals. This aligns with Rogers’ belief that humans have an innate drive towards self-actualization when nurtured in the right environment.
However, Rogers’ theory has faced criticisms and shortcomings. One critique is that it may overly idealize human nature, assuming that individuals always strive toward positive growth when given the proper conditions. Critics argue that not all humans naturally pursue self-actualization, especially when faced with systemic barriers, trauma, or environmental adversity. Furthermore, some have challenged its applicability in explaining severe mental illnesses, where innate biological factors or unconscious conflicts play a significant role. Rogers’ focus on conscious experience might neglect these deeper, often inaccessible, influences on human behavior.
References
- Rogers, C. R. (1951). Client-Centered Therapy. Houghton Mifflin.
- Maslow, A. H. (1943). A theory of human motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370–396.
- Gois, R., & Gonçalves, M. (2018). The contributions of Carl Rogers to psychotherapy. Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 58(1), 26-44.
- Brown, L. S. (2014). Humanistic psychology and its critics. American Psychologist, 69(2), 114-124.
- Cooper, M. (2008). Person-Centred Therapy: A revolutionary approach to counseling. Routledge.
- Sheldon, K. M., & Houser-Marko, L. (2001). Self-concordance, goal content, and the pursuit of happiness. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 80(1), 152-161.
- Cain, D. J., & Seeman, J. (2017). Humanistic psychotherapies: A review. Psychotherapy, 54(4), 393-402.
- Watson, J. B. (1913). Psychology as the Behaviorist Views It. Psychological Review, 20(2), 158–177.
- Bandura, A. (1977). Self-efficacy: Toward a unifying theory of behavioral change. Psychological Review, 84(2), 191–215.
- Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic motivation and self-determination in human behavior. Springer Science & Business Media.