Final answer:
Humanism introduced an optimistic view of human behavior, emphasizing free will and potential for personal growth, contrasting with the deterministic views of behaviorism and psychoanalysis. Prominent figures like Abraham Maslow with his hierarchy of needs theory and Carl Rogers with client-centered therapy grounded humanism in both theory and therapeutic practice, influencing psychology's development.
Step-by-step explanation:
Differences Between Humanism and Prior Approaches to Behavior
Humanism in psychology offered a stark contrast to the earlier schools of thought like behaviorism and psychoanalysis. While behaviorism focused on the external behavior, implying that all behavior is determined by genetic and environmental factors, and psychoanalysis emphasized unconscious motivations and psychological disturbances, humanism introduced a more optimistic perspective on human nature. It suggests that humans are not passive reactors to stimuli or prisoners of their unconscious, but rather beings with free will, innate goodness, and self-determination, capable of personal growth and self-actualization.
Abraham Maslow, a pioneer of humanism, is famous for his hierarchy of needs theory, which stresses that human needs are arranged in a hierarchy from basic physiological needs to the need for self-actualization. Maslow believed emotional and behavioral issues might stem from unmet needs within this hierarchy. Carl Rogers, another leading figure in humanistic psychology, is known for his client-centered therapy, which is still widely used today, reinforcing the legacy of humanism in practical application.
The cognitive revolution also shifted the focus back to the mind and individual consciousness, complementing the humanistic emphasis on acknowledging the whole, self-aware human being. Ultimately, humanism has had enduring influence on psychology, contributing significantly to the understanding of self-development and personal fulfillment.