Ahfad University for Women School Of Psychology Third Year CHP

Abnormal Psychology1

The Humanistic Perspective

Lect 8

Dr. Reem Ibrahim Ahmed

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The Humanistic-Existential Model

Combination model The humanist view Emphasis on people as friendly, cooperative, and constructive; focus on drive to self-actualization The existentialist view Emphasis on self-determination, choice, and individual responsibility; focus on authenticity
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Rogerss Humanistic Theory and Therapy

Believes in the basic human need for unconditional positive regard If received, leads to unconditional selfregard If not, leads to conditions of worth Incapable of self-actualization because of distortion do not know what they really need, etc.
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 Rogerss client-centered therapy Therapist creates a supportive climate Unconditional positive regard Accurate empathy Genuineness Little research support Abnormality results from lack of Caring and support
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Existential Theories and Therapy

Belief that psychological dysfunction is caused by self-deception; people hide from lifes responsibilities and fail to recognize that it is up to them to give meaning to their lives In therapy, people are encouraged to accept personal responsibility for their problems Goals more important than technique Great emphasis placed on client-therapist relationship Abnormality results from lack of Meaning in life and anxiety
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 Humanistic approach Developed by Fritz Perls Goal is to guide clients toward selfrecognition through challenge and frustration Techniques: Skillful frustration Role playing Rules, including Here and Now and I language
6 Comer, Abnormal Psychology, 7e

Gestalt Theory and Therapy

Assessing the Humanistic-Existential Model Strengths:

Taps into domains missing from other theories Emphasizes the individual Optimistic Emphasizes health More spiritual, appealing view of abnormality and human condition Optimistic Emphasizes personal responsibility

Weaknesses:
Focuses on abstract issues Difficult to research Not much influence Weakened by disapproval of scientific approach Changing somewhat May emphasize personal responsibility too much Difficult to define and research concepts (like psychodynamic theories)
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EXISTENTIAL-HUMANISTIC THEORIES Core qualities of therapist for clientcentered therapy Empathy

Warmth (unconditional positive regard) Genuineness - authenticity

Existential-humanistic Theories Other Important Existential-humanistic Theorists And Therapists Maslow self-actualization and need hierarchy
Jourard importance of self-disclosure for psychological health and for therapy existential Rollo May, Viktor Frankl logotherapy Fritz Perls Gestalt therapy emphasis on experience/emotion, empty chair technique
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