dividual as a process. Finally, the concept of Freedom and Responsibility is met. What this means, and what also makes the humanistic- existential perspective stand apart from any other psychological stand-point is the belief that we are as humans, given self-awareness. Meaning, we can control our impulses and are responsible for them. In other words we create our own destinies, the result is reached through our own judgement.Humanist Carl Rogers developed a theory that saw behavior motivated by what he called the actualizing tendency, the desire to preserve and enhance oneself through self-actualization. While persuing self- actualization we engage in the valuing process, where we go through various experiences that either enhance oneself and are valued as good, or, bad experiences not enhancing oneself which are avoided. Hence, how we handle this process relies on two interacting factors: the organism, our total perception of our experiences, and, the self, our image of ourselves. A major decisive factor is childhood experience and the positive regard that is engrossed. Rogers also developed a technique called client-centered therapy. In an accepting atmosthere the patient confronts inconsistent feelings and experiences, where self and organism are brought back into congruence. Now free from their troubles they can proceed with self-actualization.Another humanist, Abraham Maslow, is recognized for contributing to the humanistic perspective. His concept of The Hierarchy of Needs, is noted for the series of needs that must be met before self- actualization can be obtained. Maslow proposed five levels. The first being biological, where the needs for hunger, thirst and sex drives are met. Second are the safety needs, where we acknowledge our environment as stable, safe and predictable. The third is the need for belongingness and love that is warm and accepted by as well as given by family and friends. Fourth are our e...
