Humanistic Perspective

The humanistic perspective appeals to me since the basis for this theory is that we have free will, and our behavior isn't predetermined. This theory assumes that people are unique, and all possess a drive to reach their maximum potential. This theory also favors studying the results from individual cases, in lieu of the average performance of a group. This method of measuring results reinforces the concept that all people are unique and capable of making our own decisions. After all, one of the basic assumptions of the theory is that all individuals are unique.

Some of the key features of this approach is utilizing qualitative research, an idiographic approach, congruence, self actualization, holism, a hierarchy of needs, and free will. I first learned about one of these features, the hierarchy of needs while taking a management class, and really connected with the concept. This hierarchy of needs theory was introduced by by Abraham Maslow in 1943, and basically details that all individuals are striving for self-actualization and to achieve this they need to satisfy five stages, which are divided into three deficiency and growth needs. The three basic needs in order of importance are: basic needs, psychological needs, and self-fulfillment. These basic needs are broken down further into five stages, consisting of: psychological
The humanistic approach ignores the unconscious mind, does not take into account biological or scientific data, is biased toward western culture, and the goal of self-actualization cannot be objectively measured. But, even with these limitations I prefer this perspective due to it placing the responsibility of an individual's actions on that individual. Since the basis of the theory is we all have free will, and deviations from social norms are a personal choice, rather than an uncontrollable action caused by some mental or physical