Humanistic Psychology: an approach centered on the individual and their emotions

According to the American Humanist Association, humanistic psychology is an approach to psychology that emphasizes the study of beings. humans as whole persons, not just a collection of symptoms, and that in him lies the responsibility and ability to change.

This approach was originally called "humanism" and has its roots in existential philosophy. Emphasizes subjective meaning, self-actualization, and personal responsibility.

It has also been called "the Third Force" in psychology because it is a perspective that is independent of behaviorism and psychoanalysis.

The term "humanist" was first used by Abraham Maslow in 1943 to describe his own theories that were not based on the mechanistic models of behaviorism or psychoanalysis, but on what he called "the potentialities human".

• Related article: "History of Psychology: authors and main theories"

Humanism and its Impact on Mental Health

The humanistic approach to mental health has been around for decades. Is a way of thinking about mental health that emphasizes the importance of the individual, their uniqueness, and their ability to change

. It is an approach that values emotions and the feelings of people in a different way from other approaches both in the importance given to it and in the understanding of these.

According to this approach, emotions and feelings are an essential part of the human experience and they have an important role in the way people develop and relate to the world.

The humanistic approach differs mainly from psychoanalysis because focuses more on the present and the here and now, instead of in the past and in the influence of the unconscious. It also differs from the cognitive behavioral current because it focuses more on the subjective experience of the person and on how the world feels and experiences it, rather than in observable behavior and cognitive processes underlying.

Furthermore, the humanistic approach believes that people have a natural tendency toward growth and self-fulfillment, and who have the ability to make decisions and solve problems on their own same. Therefore, the humanistic therapist focuses on supporting the client in his process of self-knowledge and helping him find solutions and meaning in his life.

By valuing people's emotions and feelings and focusing on the person's subjective experience, the humanistic approach has provided a framework of understanding and a unique perspective for dealing with people who have experienced trauma and emotional difficulties.

The humanistic therapist may use techniques such as client-centered therapy and gestalt therapy. to help people understand and process their emotions and find meaning and purpose in their life. These techniques can be especially effective in helping people overcome trauma such as abuse, violence and loss, and can provide a strong foundation for personal growth and emotional well-being for long term.

In addition, the humanistic approach has also contributed to a greater focus on mental health care in general and on the importance of empathy and human connection in the recovery process.

• You may be interested in: "Mental health: definition and characteristics according to psychology"

critics

In psychology, as in any science, it is important not to be 100% passionate about a model or technique, which is why I stress the most common criticisms of this approach:

1. Lack of scientific evidence

Some critics argue that the humanistic approach is not supported by scientific evidence and has not been rigorously evaluated by controlled investigation. (I invite you to read the sources at the end of the article in order to change that negative paradigm).

2. Lack of focus on observable behavior

Some argue that the humanistic approach focuses too much on the subjective experience of the person and not enough on observable behavior and underlying cognitive processes.

• Related article: "Existentialism: definition and history of this current of thought"

3. Lack of focus on the role of the unconscious

Some critics argue that the humanistic approach does not pay enough attention to the role of the unconscious in human behavior and problem solving.

4. Lack of a solid theoretical framework

Some argue that the humanistic approach lacks a solid and coherent theoretical framework and that it's too broad and vague to be useful in clinical practice.

Future prospects of humanism

It is important to note that these criticisms are not universal and that the humanist approach has shown be effective in many cases and has provided a valuable framework for the treatment of health problems mental. However, it is important to consider these criticisms and to keep in mind that no therapeutic approach is perfect and that it can be useful to use a variety of approaches depending on the needs and circumstances individual.

I find it difficult to predict with certainty how exactly the humanistic approach to mental health will evolve in the future, as it depends on so many factors, such as trends and advances in the field of mental health, the demand for certain treatments and approaches, and the interest and support of professionals and organizations. However, it can be said that the humanistic approach is still an important and relevant current in the field of mental health and it is likely that it will continue to be so in the future.

The humanistic approach is based on the idea that each person is unique and has the potential for growth and development. Therefore, it is possible that it will continue to be used in different contexts and with different populations, such as in the treatment of mental disorders, in the promotion of mental health and well-being, and in intervention in situations of crisis.

In terms of impact, the humanistic approach can have a positive impact on people's mental health by promoting autonomy and independence and by emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and one's acceptance same. In addition, the humanistic approach can help people develop problem-solving skills and make decisions for themselves. themselves, which can be beneficial for their psychological well-being and their ability to cope with challenges and difficult situations in the workplace. future.

Conclusion

The conclusion is that humanistic psychotherapy is a great way to start your journey of self discovery. It is a holistic approach to mental health and can be used for many purposes.

Humanistic psychotherapy not only helps treat psychological problems, but also helps the person's personal development. This therapy will allow you to explore your inner self and discover what is in your subconscious.