Humanistic Psychology

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes the approach of humanistic psychology in the treatment of mental health. It describes the role of humanist therapists (also known as transpersonalists, Gestalt therapists, psycho-physiologists, integral psychologists, mind/body practitioners, postmodernists and human scientists). The paper also describes the history of humanistic psychology and how it has evolved with time and discusses the offshoots that fall under the humanist approach.

From the Paper:

"In the 1970s and 80s, the ideas and values of humanistic psychology spread into many areas of society. In addition to the above noted areas, there is also green politics, deep ecology, the feminist and gay rights movements, and the psycho-spiritual wing of the peace movement. This takes into account an integrated and balanced view of human nature and maintaining harmony in the grand scheme of existence. As noted by Maureen O'Hara, past president of the Association for Humanistic Psychologists: "As the world's people demand freedom and self-determination, it is urgent that we learn how diverse communities of empowered individuals, with freedom to construct their own stories and identities, might live together in mutual peace. Perhaps it is not a vain hope that is life in such communities might lead to the advance in human consciousness beyond anything we have yet experienced. ""

Sample of Sources Used:

• Association for Humanistic Psychology. Website retrieved December 20, 2006. http://www.ahpweb.org/aboutahp/whatis.html
• Encyclopedia of Religion. Website retrieved December 20, 2006. http://hirr.hartsem.edu/ency/Psychology.htm
• Green, E., & Green, A. (1974). Mind training, ESP, hypnosis, and voluntary control of internal states. In J. Regush and N. Regush (Eds.), Psi: The other world catalogue. NY: G. P. Putnam's
• Hayes, S.C, Strosahl, K.D., & Wilson, K.G. (1999) 1999 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: An Experiential Approach to Behavior Change. NY: Guilford Press.
• Kendler, H.H.(2005) Psychology and phenomenology: A clarification. American Psychologist 60(4), 318-324

More papers on Humanistic Psychology:

• Analytical Essay # 125684 : "Ethnocentric Limitations of Humanistic Psychology"
• Term Paper # 138746 : "Humanistic Psychology"
• Research Paper # 68912 : "Current Manifestations of Humanistic Psychology"
• Comparison Essay # 47427 : "Humanistic Psychology"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: