The humanistic–existential model is an important approach in psychology. Humanistic and existential theories are often grouped together because they focus on some common dimensions of human existence.

From the humanistic view, humanistic theorists are more optimistic. They believe that humans are naturally good, cooperative, and constructive. They argue that every person has an inner drive to grow and reach their full potential, a process called self-actualization. To achieve this, individuals must accept both their strengths and weaknesses and develop personal values to guide their lives. When people succeed in self-actualizing, they tend to live with love, courage, independence, and care for others.

From the existential view, existential theorists focus on living a meaningful life. They say that people need to be “authentic” in order to be psychologically well adjusted. They believe people are not naturally inclined to live positively. Instead, from birth, they have complete freedom, total freedom, to choose how to live. This freedom brings responsibilities—the responsibility to face life’s challenges, make meaningful choices, and create purpose. Those who avoid these responsibilities may view themselves as helpless and may live empty, inauthentic, and dysfunctional lives as a result.

There are some theories and therapies within this model. Some of them are:

 

1. ROGERS’ HUMANISTIC THEORY AND THERAPY:

According to Carl Rogers, psychological dysfunction begins in infancy. We all have a basic need to receive positive regard from important people like parents. If children receive unconditional positive regard, meaning non-judgemental acceptance, they develop unconditional self-regard, meaning they value themselves even if they are not perfect. These people can grow and reach their full potential. However, if children receive love only when they meet certain conditions, they develop conditions of worth. They start believing they are worthy only if they behave in certain ways. To protect their self-esteem, they may deny or distort their real thoughts and feelings, which leads to problems.

In therapy, Rogers developed client-centered therapy, where the therapist provides unconditional positive regard, accurate empathy, and genuineness.

Some studies show that client-centered therapy helps people improve, but other studies have failed to find any strong evidence. Because the outcomes of this approach are hard to measure, there has been little controlled research on this approach.

 

2. GESTALT THEORY AND THERAPY

Gestalt therapy is a humanistic approach developed by Frederick (Fritz) Perls. The main goal is to guide people toward self-recognition and self-acceptance. Unlike client-centered therapy, it is more direct and challenging. Clients are challenged and even frustrated.

The techniques which are used include skillful frustration, role playing, and various rules and exercises. About 1% of clinical psychologists use Gestalt therapy. Since Gestalt therapy focuses on personal experience, which are hard to measure, there has been little controlled research on this approach.

 

3. SPIRITUAL VIEWS AND INTERVENTIONS

In the 1800s and 1900s, many clinicians believed religion was harmful to mental health. Some used the term “religious insanity” for patients in mental hospitals. Freud also saw religion as a defence mechanism to cope with human helplessness.

However, views have changed over time. Research shows that spirituality is often linked to better mental health. People who believe in a warm, caring, and dependable God are usually less lonely, anxious, and depressed. They also cope better with major life problems and have a lower risk of suicide.

 

4. EXISTENTIAL THEORIES AND THERAPY

Existentialists believe that many people feel lost and pressured by the demands of modern life. They often depend on others. As a result, they avoid taking responsibility for their lives. This can lead to feelings of emptiness, lack of purpose, anxiety, frustration, and depression.

In existential therapy, clients are encouraged to accept responsibility for their actions and choices. Therapies help them by recognizing their freedom to choose a new path and create a life with more meaning.

Existential therapists believe that experimental methods cannot fully measure the effectiveness of the treatment, as well as it reduces human experience. That is why very little controlled experiment has been done. Around 1% of clinical psychologists today mainly use existential therapy.

ADVANTAGES

The humanistic and existential approach has several advantages. This model focuses on human experience and addresses areas often ignored by other models. It promotes self-growth, self-experience, life meaning, and responsibilities, which are often lacking in people with psychological problems. It also gives an optimistic view of human nature. Furthermore, this model views people as individuals with potential rather than just patients with illness.

DISADVANTAGES

Despite these strengths, the model also has some disadvantages. Its ideas are abstract and hard to test scientifically. There is limited research evidence because many theorists avoided scientific studies. Additionally, it may seem less practical for treating serious mental disorders.