Final answer:
Humanistic psychology is the optimistic branch of psychology that presumes people are inherently good and emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization, contrasting with determinism of psychoanalysis and behaviorism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct option is A:
The branch of Psychology that has been characterized as being optimistic and assuming people are born good is Humanistic psychology (a). Humanistic psychology emerged as a response to the perceived limitations of psychoanalysis and behaviorism, which were the dominant streams in the early 20th century. This approach, also known as the "third force" in psychology, stresses the inherent goodness and potential for growth within all humans. Unlike behaviorism, which is deterministic and posits that all human behavior is shaped by genetics and environment, humanistic psychology advocates for personal control and intentionality. It champions the concept that everyone has an innate predisposition towards growth and self-actualization. Advocates of humanistic psychology like Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers argue that individuals are naturally inclined towards seeking personal improvement and have an essential capacity for self-directed change. The development of this branch of psychology was a significant departure from the views of Freudian psychoanalysis and Skinner's behaviorism, as it offers a more optimistic viewpoint that emphasizes free will, personal growth, and the psychological health of the individual.