#humanistic psychology

[omegaphilosophia]

Theories of Personality

Theories of personality aim to explain how and why individuals differ in their patterns of behavior, thinking, and emotions. There are several major theories that attempt to describe and categorize personality traits and development.

1. Psychoanalytic Theory (Sigmund Freud)

Core Idea: Freud’s theory of personality revolves around the interaction of the id (basic instincts), ego (rational thought), and superego (moral standards). He believed that personality develops through early childhood experiences and unconscious conflicts.

Structure of Personality: Freud proposed that the unconscious mind plays a key role in shaping behavior and personality, with unresolved internal conflicts influencing behavior.

Defense Mechanisms: Freud also suggested that individuals use defense mechanisms, such as repression or denial, to cope with anxiety and protect their self-image.

Stages of Development: The theory includes psychosexual stages (oral, anal, phallic, latency, and genital stages), with conflicts at each stage influencing adult personality.

2. Humanistic Theory (Carl Rogers, Abraham Maslow)

Core Idea: Humanistic theories emphasize personal growth, free will, and self-actualization. These theories view humans as inherently good, striving to reach their full potential.

Self-Actualization: Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs posits that individuals move through a series of needs, from basic physiological needs to self-actualization, where they fulfill their potential and experience personal growth.

Carl Rogers’ Person-Centered Theory: Rogers introduced the concept of the self-concept, which is how people perceive themselves. He believed that for individuals to achieve their full potential, they need an environment that provides genuineness, acceptance, and empathy.

Unconditional Positive Regard: Rogers argued that receiving unconditional love and acceptance is key to developing a healthy personality and self-esteem.

3. Trait Theory (Gordon Allport, Raymond Cattell, Hans Eysenck)

Core Idea: Trait theories suggest that personality is made up of broad, enduring traits or characteristics that determine behavior.

Gordon Allport: He identified three types of traits: cardinal traits (dominant traits that define an individual), central traits (general traits that form the basic foundation of personality), and secondary traits (more specific traits that appear in certain situations).

Raymond Cattell: Cattell used factor analysis to identify 16 personality factors, suggesting that a combination of these factors defines a person’s unique personality.

Hans Eysenck: Eysenck's model focused on three dimensions of personality: extraversion-introversion, neuroticism-stability, and psychoticism (related to aggressiveness and antisocial tendencies).

4. The Big Five (Five-Factor Model)

Core Idea: The Big Five personality traits are the most widely accepted framework for understanding personality. These traits are thought to exist along a continuum, and people fall at different points within these five dimensions:

Openness to Experience: Creative, curious, open to new ideas vs. traditional, routine-oriented.

Conscientiousness: Organized, responsible, goal-oriented vs. careless, impulsive.

Extraversion: Sociable, outgoing vs. introverted, reserved.

Agreeableness: Cooperative, compassionate vs. antagonistic, competitive.

Neuroticism: Emotionally unstable, anxious vs. emotionally stable, calm.

This model is considered to capture the basic structure of personality across different cultures and contexts.

5. Social-Cognitive Theory (Albert Bandura)

Core Idea: Personality is shaped by the interaction between personal factors (cognitive abilities, beliefs, emotions), behavior, and environment. This is known as reciprocal determinism.

Self-Efficacy: Bandura introduced the concept of self-efficacy, which is the belief in one's ability to succeed in specific situations. High self-efficacy leads to more persistence and confidence in challenging tasks, while low self-efficacy can lead to avoidance of difficult situations.

Observational Learning: Bandura also emphasized the role of modeling and observational learning in personality development, arguing that people learn behaviors and emotional responses by observing others.

6. Behaviorist Theory (B.F. Skinner)

Core Idea: Behaviorists argue that personality is the result of learned behaviors, shaped by rewards and punishments in an individual's environment.

Operant Conditioning: Skinner focused on operant conditioning, where behavior is influenced by reinforcement (positive or negative) or punishment. Over time, individuals develop consistent behavioral patterns based on their experiences with rewards and consequences.

Environmental Determinism: Behaviorists view personality as a product of the external environment rather than internal traits or unconscious forces.

7. Biological and Evolutionary Theories (Hans Eysenck, David Buss)

Core Idea: Biological theories emphasize that personality traits have genetic underpinnings and that human behavior is influenced by evolutionary processes.

Eysenck’s Biological Basis of Personality: Eysenck proposed that personality traits like extraversion and neuroticism are linked to biological differences in brain arousal and functioning.

Evolutionary Psychology: David Buss and other evolutionary psychologists argue that personality traits evolved to solve problems related to survival and reproduction. For instance, traits like aggression or cooperation may have developed as adaptive strategies in human evolutionary history.

8. Cognitive-Behavioral Theory

Core Idea: This theory integrates elements from both cognitive and behavioral psychology. It suggests that cognitive processes (thought patterns, beliefs) play a crucial role in determining behavior and, therefore, personality.

Aaron Beck’s Cognitive Theory: Beck emphasized how automatic thoughts and cognitive distortions (like overgeneralization or catastrophic thinking) shape personality and emotional responses.

Cognitive Restructuring: In cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), individuals learn to identify and change negative thought patterns, which in turn influences their behavior and personality over time.

9. Narrative Identity Theory

Core Idea: Narrative identity theory suggests that individuals construct a life story or narrative to make sense of their experiences and define their identity. This narrative evolves over time, reflecting personal growth, values, and social influences.

Dan McAdams: McAdams proposed that personal identity is shaped by the stories we tell about ourselves. People seek coherence and meaning in their life stories, which reflect their personality traits, goals, and values.

This approach emphasizes that personality is not just a set of static traits but an evolving narrative shaped by personal choices and experiences.

10. Existential and Phenomenological Theories

Core Idea: These theories focus on individual experience, freedom, and the search for meaning. Existential psychologists like Rollo May and Viktor Frankl argue that personality is shaped by how individuals confront fundamental existential questions, such as the meaning of life, freedom, and death.

Frankl's Logotherapy: Viktor Frankl emphasized the importance of finding meaning in life, even in suffering, as the central drive in human behavior. He believed that the quest for meaning shapes personality and behavior.

Authenticity and Choice: Existential psychology stresses that individuals are responsible for their own choices, and living authentically means confronting existential realities and making choices in alignment with one’s values.

Theories of personality offer different perspectives on the factors that shape human behavior and individual differences. From Freud’s focus on unconscious drives to the modern trait theories like the Big Five, these approaches explore the intricate dynamics of behavior, thought, and emotion that constitute personality.

[belleandre-belle]

[masterjs35]

In order to be the best version of yourself, we have to become our whole self first, that's the hard part. And from that point onwards it turns into a smooth sailing towards reaching your full potential.

Precisely, how I manage to do everything seemingly effortless. it's cause I have managed to be myself. Because being who you are is more than enough.

[idigitizellp21]

Exploring Humanistic Psychotherapy: A Journey Of Self-Discovery

In the vast landscape of psychotherapy approaches, humanistic psychotherapy stands out as a deeply compassionate and client-centered approach to understanding and healing the human psyche. Developed in the mid-20th century by luminaries like Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, humanistic psychotherapy places the individual at the center of their own therapeutic journey. This blog explores the key principles, techniques, and benefits of humanistic psychotherapy while referencing some influential works in the field.

The Humanistic Paradigm

Humanistic psychotherapy is rooted in the belief that every individual has an innate drive toward self-actualization — a desire to fulfill their potential and become the best version of themselves. This contrasts with other therapeutic approaches that may focus on pathology or symptom reduction. Two foundational figures in humanistic psychology, Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, paved the way for this approach.

Carl Rogers and Client-Centered Therapy

Carl Rogers’ Client-Centered Therapy, outlined in his book “On Becoming a Person” (1961), emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship. In this approach, the therapist provides an empathetic, non-judgmental, and unconditional positive regard for the client. This creates an environment where the client can explore their thoughts and emotions freely, fostering self-discovery and personal growth.

Abraham Maslow and Self-Actualization

Maslow’s “Motivation and Personality” (1954) introduced the hierarchy of needs, with self-actualization at its pinnacle. Humanistic therapists draw upon Maslow’s ideas to help clients move towards self-actualization by addressing basic needs like safety and belonging while also encouraging personal growth and creativity.

Core Principles of Humanistic Psychotherapy

1. Holistic Approach: Humanistic therapy views individuals as whole beings, incorporating their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and spiritual dimensions into the therapeutic process.

2. Self-Exploration: Clients are encouraged to explore their feelings, beliefs, and values, fostering self-awareness and personal insight.

3. Non-Directive: Therapists act as facilitators, not directors, allowing clients to guide the sessions in a direction that feels most relevant to their personal growth.

4. Unconditional Positive Regard: Therapists provide unwavering acceptance and support, creating a safe space for clients to express themselves authentically.

Techniques in Humanistic Psychotherapy

1. Active Listening: Therapists practice empathetic listening to understand the client’s experiences without judgment or interpretation.

2. Reflection: Therapists reflect the client’s feelings and thoughts back to them, aiding self-awareness and deeper understanding.

3. Gestalt Therapy: Developed by Fritz Perls, this technique explores the integration of conflicting aspects of the self, often through role-playing or empty chair exercises.

Benefits of Humanistic Psychotherapy

1. Self-Discovery: Clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their values, and their goals, leading to increased self-acceptance and authenticity.

2. Enhanced Relationships: Improved self-awareness and empathy cultivated during therapy can enhance personal and professional relationships.

3. Personal Growth: Humanistic psychotherapy fosters personal growth and the pursuit of one’s potential, promoting a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Conclusion

Humanistic psychotherapy offers a profound and transformative approach to mental health and personal development. Rooted in the belief in each person’s potential for growth and self-actualization, it provides a therapeutic journey focused on self-discovery, empowerment, and authenticity. As Carl Rogers eloquently stated, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” In the realm of humanistic psychotherapy, this acceptance forms the foundation for lasting personal transformation.

– Urveez Kakalia.

[eowyn35-blog]

I have to say that on a personal level, I choose to never understand any parent putting a condition on love for their child. Yes, you can make your arguments, and a tiny devil's advocate in me could potentially see where you think you're coming from.

BUT, to me, PERSONALLY, there is no reason to ever deny love to your child (genetic, adopted, found, whatever). I love my own child (God graced with one miracle) regardless of how they may change or evolve over their lifetime. They will always be my offspring and I will always love them. They may DO something I don't like, but I will always love their person, even when I don't agree with their behaviors (behavior includes actions, thoughts, emotions, words). I am here to support my child any way I can so that they can become the person they want (or need) to be. I don't need to live my life through them. I make my own choices along my own path, and my child does the same for them. I do what I can to help them along.

So, I cannot fathom any parent who stops loving their child because of a choice that child makes, perceived big or small, on their way to discovering who they are and/or really want to be. That's the essence of life, evolving & growing into our selves over time. These parents create such irreparable damage when they place conditions on their love. Who the hell are you that your "love" is so important your kid has to EARN it?!

[booksandwitchery]

The Intersection of Magic, Science, and Psychology

As a rule I like to go back and look at my first grimoire periodically (I'm a baby witch, so I'm only on my second right now) and flip through it. It's great because there are always things I've forgotten, or changed my mind about, etc.

Today I decided to go back and flip through, and I read something that I don't even remember writing. It is a synthesis of things I read from NaturalPagan.org and an article called "What Is Manifestation? Science-Based Ways to Manifest":

I. Research on growth mindset by Carol Dweck shows conclusively that believing you can do something makes it more likely that you can successfully do that thing. This means that the mere belief that you can do something contributes to the manifestation of your desires.

II. The observable effectiveness of visualization has been well-documented by scientists; visualization works and has a profound effect on performance, health and success. This impact is measurable--it isn't a solely subjective opinion. Visualization also activates regions of the brain responsible for creative, intuitive, and holistic thinking. Mental imagery impacts many cognitive processes in the brain, such as motor control, attention, perception, planning, memory, etc.

III. Studies by psychologists have revealed intriguing results about the effects that rituals have on people's thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Rituals (secular or otherwise) contribute to better execution of tasks, reduced anxiety, and heightened ability to experience positive emotions.

Ergo, my sweet friends: this is why witchcraft works.

[omegaphilosophia]

The Philosophy of Authenticity

The concept of authenticity is deeply rooted in existentialist philosophy and has been a significant topic of discussion in various philosophical traditions. At its core, authenticity involves living a life that is true to one's self, values, and beliefs, rather than conforming to external pressures or societal expectations. This exploration delves into the philosophy of authenticity, its origins, key ideas, and its relevance in contemporary life.

Key Concepts in the Philosophy of Authenticity

Existentialism and Authenticity:

Origins: The notion of authenticity is most closely associated with existentialist philosophers such as Søren Kierkegaard, Martin Heidegger, and Jean-Paul Sartre.

Kierkegaard: Kierkegaard emphasized the importance of individual faith and subjective experience, urging individuals to make authentic choices that reflect their true selves.

Heidegger: In "Being and Time," Heidegger discusses authenticity as being true to one's own existence (Dasein) and not succumbing to the "they-self," which represents societal norms and expectations.

Sartre: Sartre's existentialism posits that existence precedes essence, meaning individuals must create their own essence through authentic choices, taking full responsibility for their actions.

Authenticity and Self-Discovery:

Concept: Authenticity involves a continuous process of self-discovery and self-creation.

Argument: To be authentic, one must engage in introspection and recognize their own desires, values, and beliefs, distinguishing them from those imposed by society.

Authenticity vs. Inauthenticity:

Concept: Inauthenticity arises when individuals conform to external pressures and live in a way that is not true to themselves.

Argument: Heidegger describes inauthenticity as living according to the "they-self," where individuals adopt the roles, behaviors, and beliefs dictated by others rather than their own.

Freedom and Responsibility:

Concept: Authenticity is closely linked to the existentialist notion of freedom and the responsibility that comes with it.

Argument: Sartre asserts that individuals are "condemned to be free," meaning they must take responsibility for their choices and the authenticity of their lives, without blaming external factors.

Authenticity in Modern Life:

Concept: The pursuit of authenticity remains relevant in the context of modernity, where societal norms, technological advancements, and consumer culture often challenge individual authenticity.

Argument: In contemporary society, maintaining authenticity involves resisting the pressures of social media, consumerism, and other external influences that promote a superficial or conformist lifestyle.

Theoretical Perspectives on Authenticity

Existentialist Perspective:

View: Existentialists emphasize the importance of individual choice and responsibility in achieving authenticity.

Argument: Authenticity is achieved through existential freedom, where individuals define their own essence and live according to their true selves.

Humanistic Psychology:

View: Humanistic psychologists like Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow highlight authenticity as a crucial aspect of self-actualization and personal growth.

Argument: Authentic living is necessary for psychological well-being and fulfillment, as it allows individuals to realize their true potential.

Postmodern Critique:

View: Postmodern thinkers critique the concept of authenticity, questioning the possibility of a true, stable self in a world of constant change and fluid identities.

Argument: Authenticity may be seen as a constructed ideal rather than an attainable state, with the self being a product of various social, cultural, and historical influences.

Cultural and Social Perspectives:

View: Cultural and social theorists examine how authenticity is influenced by cultural norms and social contexts.

Argument: The quest for authenticity must consider the diverse ways in which different cultures and societies understand and value authentic living.

The philosophy of authenticity centers on the pursuit of a life that is true to one's self, free from the constraints of external pressures and societal expectations. Rooted in existentialist thought, it emphasizes self-discovery, individual freedom, and responsibility. While authenticity remains a crucial concept in contemporary life, it is also subject to critique and reinterpretation, reflecting the complexities of modern existence.

[void-thegod]

Alright, because you asked about avoiding corruption I wanted to take time to reblog an entire different section.

This is one of those "which comes first" questions. Bad people, bad environments? Or is it nature vs nurture?

We have answers to those! There are certain biological forces to account for sociopathy, aggression, tribalism, intelligence etc But we also find that - if given a healthy environment, enough education, etc - that much of nature will adapt.

People can change. And there are people who already know full well what it means to be good, to create a good society, etc Those people have existed since Plato

People like William James, Abraham Maslow, and Carl Jung pioneered humanistic psychology and helped further our understanding of how humans develop - for good and for bad.

Of course, we live in a complex world with many different groups of people.

The issue America has - like many countries - is that their governments and ways of life are not caught up to the information we have available. Humanity itself has lagged behind in our understanding of ourselves, our history, our world, and how it is all interconnected.

The fears that society wouldn't catch up to technology were correct. And society hasn't caught up with itself.

Councils like this are a way to reverse course.

We have the answers, the solutions, and the ways to implement them. What we do not have our governments and societies willing to abide by that information.

..

I think that's it?

I don't think people realize how "democracy" has gotten in the way of progress.

Yes, in a more ideal society (with more ideal people?) This shit would all work out for the betterment of mankind and the planet.

But what do we have? A bunch of rich assholes, entitled assholes, and ignorant assholes in positions of power to fuck everyone over.

All together. Even if there are OBVIOUSLY solutions to all our ills... mf can just be like "nope. Would rather argue about the obvious"

Meanwhile the planet is on fire.

Please shut the fuck up if you know what we are currently doing is not working and it is not working fast enough

Edit: I will block you. This isn't an argument.

[moonriseoverkyoto]

I love studying psych but some days I just wanna believe humanity can be good :(

[charliemaybeghost]

Using characters to help study is so much fun! Maslows 3rd level on the hierarchy of needs is "Social needs" which includes:

- friendship ("i remember when you told my only friend to shut his stupid mouth and die!" - crowley and i did not care for it)

romantic attachments ("and I would like to spend-ngnk - crowley)

family relationships ("oh, it's a human police officer." - she is their child you cannot tell me otherwise)

social groups (I feel like Maggie and Nina count)

community groups (the Jane Austin Ball for the street shop owners association meeting)

churches and religious organisations (heaven and hell, obviously)

"in order to avoid loneliness, depression and anxiety, it is important for people to feel loved and accepted by others." ... well we know how Crowleys going to be doing then :/ can't even meet level 3 of his needs.

he's also doing badly on level 2, Safety and Security (still disliked by hell), level 4 Self-esteem needs (he needs to accomplish things, feel valued and important, be recognised for success, have personal worth). but maybe despite this, he can still reach self-actualisation? The final level "the full use and exploration of talents, capabilities, potentials etc. ... self aware and less concerned with the opinions of others."

source: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-maslows-hierachy-of-needs-4136760

[blondefoxmedic]

Reading "Humankind: A Hopeful History" by Rutger Bregman back to back with "The Lucifer Effect: understanding how good people turn evil" by Phillip Zimbardo is absolutely fascinating considering that Zimbardo basically led an experiment which could be called malpractice due to not one but several reasons as: Taking roles within the experiment (personal involvement by taking a side in the experiment from the very beginning) to manipulating people from the outside of the experiment to even plagiarism by not giving credit to the student responsible for the idea and original experiment, and ignoring that 2/3rd of the wardens did not act sadistic and in fact 1/3 was acting sympathetic.

[lordoftablecloths]

Learning psychology is great it makes me realize how mentally ill i really am- and why!

[funniest-name]

the humanistic perspective is objectively the best perspective in psychology

[soul-our-punk]

Søren Kierkegaard's knights of faith and infinite resignation is an early example of existentialist thought and, its cousin, nihlism. Each a response to a seemingly indifferent and unpredictable universal system, whether deterministic or probablistic--alive or dead.

"Faith" in this context is a childlike wonder at the profundity of the mystery. This is supposedly is replaced with infinite resignation in the form of skepticism of inherent meaning. I used to think the third stage, a melding of skepticism and the embrace of the absurd, was a return to authenticity.

Now, I'm starting to believe it was a precursor to modernism, which is a brutalist precursor to minimalism, which is a sales pitch for the consumable lifestyle that robs the worker of their labor. So, the slavish devotion to financial value supplants meaning. It encourages alienation from personal identity because of one interpretation of "existence preced[ing] essence." (Mulla Sadra, c. 1571 - 1635).

Yet, from the moment of conception, life is impacted by a multitude of factors--cause and effect which extends beyond just matter, and influence psyche. Not just energy, a different form of matter, but the psyches which precede the newly risen mind. Onward and forward, we have opportunities to develop and reinterpret and impact. Opportunities to affirm a cult of alienation, or to cultivate a community of diversity.

so the question is not "are we human, or are we dancers," but

Are we cultivators or are we cultists?

[omegaphilosophia]

The Philosophy of Excellence

The philosophy of excellence explores the nature, pursuit, and implications of striving for the highest standards in various aspects of life. Excellence is often regarded as an ideal that motivates individuals and societies to achieve their best, whether in personal development, professional endeavors, or creative pursuits. This philosophical inquiry delves into what it means to excel, the values that underpin excellence, and the practical and ethical considerations involved in its pursuit.

Key Concepts in the Philosophy of Excellence

Definition of Excellence:

Concept: Excellence is typically defined as the quality of being outstanding or extremely good. It implies surpassing ordinary standards and achieving a level of superiority.

Implications: Understanding what constitutes excellence can vary depending on cultural, social, and individual perspectives.

Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation:

Concept: The pursuit of excellence can be driven by intrinsic motivations (personal satisfaction, growth) or extrinsic motivations (rewards, recognition).

Implications: Exploring these motivations helps in understanding the deeper reasons behind the quest for excellence and its sustainability.

Virtue and Excellence:

Concept: In classical philosophy, particularly Aristotelian ethics, excellence (arete) is closely linked to virtue. It involves developing one's abilities and character to achieve a good and fulfilling life.

Implications: This perspective connects moral and ethical dimensions with the concept of excellence.

Standards and Measurement:

Concept: Excellence involves benchmarks and standards against which performance is measured. These standards can be objective (quantifiable achievements) or subjective (perceptions of quality).

Implications: The criteria for excellence influence how it is pursued and recognized in different fields.

Role of Failure and Resilience:

Concept: The path to excellence often includes overcoming failures and developing resilience. Learning from setbacks is integral to achieving high standards.

Implications: This aspect emphasizes the process-oriented nature of excellence rather than focusing solely on outcomes.

Theories on the Philosophy of Excellence

Aristotelian Virtue Ethics:

Theory: Aristotle posited that excellence is achieved through the cultivation of virtues, which are traits that enable individuals to perform their functions well. This involves finding the mean between extremes in actions and emotions.

Implications: This theory highlights the moral and ethical dimensions of striving for excellence.

Existentialist Perspectives:

Theory: Existentialist philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre emphasize individual choice and authenticity in the pursuit of excellence. It involves creating meaning and purpose through one's actions.

Implications: Excellence is seen as a personal, self-defined endeavor that requires existential commitment and responsibility.

Humanistic Psychology:

Theory: Theories by psychologists such as Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers focus on self-actualization as the realization of one's potential and excellence. This involves achieving personal growth and fulfillment.

Implications: Excellence is linked to psychological well-being and the realization of innate capabilities.

Performance Theory:

Theory: In areas like sports, business, and the arts, performance theory examines how excellence can be systematically pursued through deliberate practice, feedback, and continuous improvement.

Implications: This theory provides practical strategies for achieving high levels of performance.

Ethical Leadership and Excellence:

Theory: Leadership theories often emphasize the role of ethical principles in achieving excellence. Leaders who model integrity, fairness, and dedication inspire excellence in others.

Implications: This approach connects leadership qualities with the cultivation of excellence in organizations and communities.

The philosophy of excellence encourages a nuanced exploration of what it means to achieve the highest standards, emphasizing the importance of virtues, motivation, resilience, and ethical considerations in this pursuit. It serves as a guiding framework for individuals and societies aiming to elevate their capabilities and contributions to their fullest potential.