humanistic

Meaning: The humanistic perspective holds that people have free will and an inherent drive toward growth and self-actualization, the realization of one's potential. It stresses conscious, subjective experience, unlike psychoanalytic theory (unconscious conflict) or behaviorism (conditioning). Maslow's hierarchy of needs runs from physiological, safety, love and belonging, and esteem up to self-actualization; lower needs generally take priority until they are reasonably met. Rogers emphasized unconditional positive regard, which helps the real self match the ideal self (congruence). Conditional regard tends to produce incongruence.

On the MCAT: Passages describe a person's motives or a therapist's approach, and you name the perspective from cues such as potential, growth, self-concept, or client-centered. Humanistic theories sit beside psychoanalytic, trait, social cognitive, and biological approaches to personality. Person-centered therapy uses empathy and nonjudgmental listening rather than interpretation or direction.

Common confusion: Maslow's order is a general tendency, not a rigid rule; people sometimes pursue higher goals while lower needs are unmet. Unconditional positive regard means accepting the person, not approving of every behavior.