Humanistic perspective and therapy

Humanistic perspective is one of the psychological theories that are based on embracing the human nature of each individual. The theory seeks to define human nature and the good that comes with being human. Human beings are said to be naturally good individuals whose first instinct involves doing right by their neighbors. The perspective is thus a reflection of the positive image that man relays in normal circumstances. Having a positive attitude is ideal for success and proper growth of any individual. Human beings have the ability to control the dynamics in their life so as to improve their situation. All effort to make one’s life better should therefore, stem from within as opposed to external factors (Cara & MacRae, 2005).

The theory of unconditional positive regard, genuineness and empathy lead to growth has been embraced by some individuals and opposed by others. It is thus ideal for the use of personal examples to illustrate whether the concept works in favor of human growth. In reference to unconditional positive regard, as a human being it is ideal for me to form friendships that enhance my growth and sustainability. Forming relationships with people in the surrounding environment contributes to self worth and self responsibility. One of the examples that showcase the significance of this theory to my personal growth was when I got an internship for the summer. This was a challenging time in that I was joining a new environment where I had to prove myself to the rest of the working environment. Being the new person in the group made me vulnerable to judgment from my fellow colleagues. People who showed me love and acceptance made my life in the company easy. This in turn, reflected on my performance and output in the workplace.

Being exposed to an environment where love and acceptance is limited has on more times that one stilted my growth in a particular area. One of the times where I experienced stilted growth is when I joined the drama club. This is a competitive environment where each student has to outdo their peers so as to get a role in the drama play. Some of the students were not as receptive to my joining the club in that it threatened their chance of getting the lead role. This exposed me to an unfriendly environment that deterred by performance. This situation shows that human beings appreciate a friendly environment to perform well. Despite this, human beings have the ability to strive in uncomfortable situations. The nature of the environment is thus not the main determinant factor.

The analysis of my examples displays a routine in the behavior of an individual. This routine behavior is reflective of the concept study that implicates the formation of recurring characteristics depending on the environment an individual is accustomed. This attitude is essential to other humanistic theories such as the Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Persons who manage to achieve all the requirements in all the stages display content with their life. Individuals who on the other hand, do not achieve some of the requirements in the pyramid are forever inclined to tackle all the situations that lead to complete success and happiness (Cara & MacRae, 2005).

In conclusion, humanistic theories are significance for the relationships human beings have with their peers. One of the ways that one can use the theories to their benefit is by leaning from the examples that they have experienced in the past. This will as a result, create provision of having better growth in all aspects of life.

References

Cara, E., & MacRae, A. (2005). Psychosocial occupational therapy: A clinical practice. Clifton Park, NY: Thomson Delmar Learning