humanistic psychology

Twentieth-century movement in psychology, developed largely in reaction against behaviourism and psychoanalysis, that emphasizes the importance of values, intentions, and meaning in the compass of the individual. The concept of the “self” is a central focus for most humanistic psychologists. Architects of the humanistic approach included Abraham H. Maslow, Carl R. Rogers, and Rollo May (1909–94). Types of humanistic therapies have included sensory awareness, encounter groups, existential analysis, Gestalt therapy, logotherapy, and various transpersonal, human-potential, holistic-health, and addiction-recovery schools.

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