Abstract: | Presents aspects of the new science of humanistic psychology and distinguishes it from its ideological origins in humanistic philosophy. The following elements of humanistic psychology are identified and briefly discussed: (a) the study and understanding of the person as a whole, (b) the need to understand the full life history of the human being, (c) the role of intentionality in human existence, and (d) the importance of the end goal of life for the healthy person. The individual is seen as attempting to integrate the various motives that drive the person to seek self-realization and fulfillment. The relationship of humanistic psychology to psychotherapy and to the field of education is also discussed. (44 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |