Humanistic Psychology Study Guide
Key Figures & Background
Carl Rogers (1902-1992)
Born: January 8, 1902, Oak Park, Illinois
Focus: Concept of self and self-perception
Key contribution: Person-centered therapy and self-concept theory
Abraham Maslow (1908-1970)
Born: April 1, 1908, Brooklyn, New York
Focus: Human potential and self-actualization
Key contribution: Hierarchy of Needs theory
Core Concepts
Rogers' Self Theory
Self-Concept
Definition: How we view ourselves (physical attributes, personality traits)
Formation: Develops from early childhood through others' opinions and feedback
Examples: "Am I tall/short?" "Am I kind, friendly, polite?"
Ideal Self
Definition: Who we want to become or aspire to be
Impact: Guides our goals and behaviors
Congruence vs. Incongruence
Congruence: When actual self matches ideal self → psychological health
Incongruence: Mismatch between actual and ideal self → distress and sadness
Example: Feeling self-conscious about weight and modifying behavior around others
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Structure: Pyramid with 5 levels (must satisfy lower levels before progressing)
1. Physiological Needs (Base level)
Food, water, shelter, sleep
2. Safety Needs
Security, employment, health, stability
Key Figures & Background
Carl Rogers (1902-1992)
Born: January 8, 1902, Oak Park, Illinois
Focus: Concept of self and self-perception
Key contribution: Person-centered therapy and self-concept theory
Abraham Maslow (1908-1970)
Born: April 1, 1908, Brooklyn, New York
Focus: Human potential and self-actualization
Key contribution: Hierarchy of Needs theory
Core Concepts
Rogers' Self Theory
Self-Concept
Definition: How we view ourselves (physical attributes, personality traits)
Formation: Develops from early childhood through others' opinions and feedback
Examples: "Am I tall/short?" "Am I kind, friendly, polite?"
Ideal Self
Definition: Who we want to become or aspire to be
Impact: Guides our goals and behaviors
Congruence vs. Incongruence
Congruence: When actual self matches ideal self → psychological health
Incongruence: Mismatch between actual and ideal self → distress and sadness
Example: Feeling self-conscious about weight and modifying behavior around others
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Structure: Pyramid with 5 levels (must satisfy lower levels before progressing)
1. Physiological Needs (Base level)
Food, water, shelter, sleep
2. Safety Needs
Security, employment, health, stability
