Glossary
Acceptance
A key component of Carl Rogers' growth-promoting environment, meaning showing unconditional positive regard and valuing others for who they are.
Example:
A parent who supports their child's unique interests, even if they differ from their own, shows acceptance.
Collectivist Cultures
Cultures that emphasize group harmony, interdependence, and the importance of community goals over individual desires.
Example:
In some Asian societies, family decisions are often made with the well-being of the entire family in mind, showcasing the characteristics of collectivist cultures.
Empathy
The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, putting oneself in their shoes.
Example:
When a friend is upset, truly listening and acknowledging their feelings by saying, 'I can see why you're feeling so frustrated,' demonstrates empathy.
Esteem Needs
The fourth level of Maslow's hierarchy, which includes the need for self-respect, achievement, competence, and recognition from others.
Example:
Winning an award for academic excellence or receiving praise for a job well done can satisfy a person's esteem needs.
Free Will
The belief that individuals have the ability to make their own choices and determine their own actions, rather than being solely determined by external forces or unconscious drives.
Example:
Despite growing up in a challenging environment, a person might exercise their free will to pursue higher education and break a cycle of poverty.
Genuineness
A quality emphasized by Carl Rogers, referring to being open, honest, and transparent with one's feelings and thoughts.
Example:
A friend who shares their true feelings, even when difficult, demonstrates genuineness in their relationship.
Hierarchy of Needs
Abraham Maslow's pyramid-shaped model that proposes human motivations are arranged in a hierarchy, where basic needs must be satisfied before higher-level needs can be pursued.
Example:
Before a student can focus on achieving academic excellence (esteem needs), they first need to ensure they have enough food and a safe place to live, illustrating Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
Humanistic Psychology
A psychological perspective that emphasizes the inherent goodness of people and their capacity for personal growth, focusing on free will and the pursuit of self-actualization.
Example:
A therapist using a humanistic psychology approach would focus on a client's strengths and potential, rather than solely on their past traumas.
Ideal Self
The person you aspire to be, representing your goals, values, and aspirations.
Example:
Someone who dreams of being a compassionate and successful doctor has an ideal self that guides their academic and personal choices.
Individualistic Cultures
Cultures that prioritize personal goals, achievements, and independence, where identity is often defined by individual traits.
Example:
In many Western societies, children are encouraged to pursue their unique talents and career paths, reflecting the values of individualistic cultures.
Love and Belonging Needs
The third level of Maslow's hierarchy, involving the need for social connection, affection, friendship, and a sense of belonging to a group or community.
Example:
Joining a sports team or finding a close group of friends helps fulfill an individual's love and belonging needs.
Physiological Needs
The most basic level of Maslow's hierarchy, including fundamental requirements for survival such as food, water, shelter, and sleep.
Example:
Feeling hungry and thirsty after a long hike are examples of unmet physiological needs that demand immediate attention.
Safety Needs
The second level of Maslow's hierarchy, encompassing the need for security, stability, protection from harm, and a sense of order.
Example:
Seeking a stable job with health benefits and living in a secure neighborhood are ways people try to satisfy their safety needs.
Self-Actualization
The highest level in Maslow's hierarchy of needs, representing the motivation to fulfill one's full potential and become the best version of oneself.
Example:
A painter who dedicates their life to mastering their craft and expressing their unique vision, feeling a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment, is striving for self-actualization.
Self-Concept
Your overall perception of who you are, encompassing your thoughts and feelings about your identity, abilities, and characteristics.
Example:
A person's self-concept might include seeing themselves as an intelligent student, a loyal friend, and a talented musician.
Self-Esteem
An individual's overall sense of self-worth or personal value, reflecting how they feel about themselves.
Example:
Receiving positive feedback on a presentation can boost a student's self-esteem, making them feel more confident in their abilities.
Self-Transcendence
A level beyond self-actualization in Maslow's expanded hierarchy, where individuals find purpose and meaning beyond themselves, often through helping others or contributing to a cause.
Example:
A retired teacher who volunteers their time to mentor underprivileged students, finding deep satisfaction in contributing to their community, is experiencing self-transcendence.
Unconditional Positive Regard
A concept from Carl Rogers, referring to a caring, accepting, nonjudgmental attitude toward another person, regardless of their actions or feelings.
Example:
A therapist who listens to a client's struggles without judgment, offering consistent support, provides unconditional positive regard.