Reference no: EM133600273

Discussion Post: The Rise of Humanism

Getting Started

Humanism has been commonly referred to as the "third force" in psychology, with the psychodynamic and behaviorist perspectives being the first two major theoretical framworks or forces. Together, these three theories laid the foundation for modern psychology. Humanism came upon the scene in the mid-twentieth century and is now a more potent force in modern culture than ever. Interestingly, Positive Psychology is being noted as the "fourth force" in the field of psychology and thus the value of understanding the history of all four perspectives cannot be overly emphasized.

A humanistic approach emphasizes principles such as empathy, equality, and creativity. You can see a humanistic touch being applied in areas like sensitivity training at the workplace. Here, individuals are taught to extend respect to others. Each person has dignity and worth and should be treated as such.

You also can see humanistic principles at work in healthcare. Modern healthcare has been criticized by many as an increasingly depersonalized, and depersonalizing, experience. When humanistic principles are applied, peoples' individual needs are taken into consideration. Their stories are listened to, their time is respected, and their care is individualized according to their needs.

Carl Rogers was a pioneer in humanistic psychology. He believed that one of the greatest skills a therapist could bring to a client was the ability to provide accurate empathy in the therapeutic interaction. It is a difficult skill to practice because it requires careful listening, sensitive reflection of the client's core message, and discipline not to "fix" the client's problem by giving advice. Roger's believed that with this type of supportive empathy clients could work out their own solution to the problems they were facing. This was indicative of the high value he placed on each person and their potential to better their own lives.

In this discussion, you'll have the opportunity to take a closer look at the development of humanism in the mid-twentieth century to learn what societal factors helped it become so popular so quickly. You'll also discuss how humanism fares when you place it against a biblical worldview. This requires some critical thinking. There are many helpful ideas within humanistic theory that are compatible with a biblical worldview, but there are also some significant diversions. You'll have the opportunity to sort these out in the discussion.

Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:

Analyze cultural trends regarding humanism.

Background Information

Before beginning the discussion, be sure to read the assigned chapter in the textbook and the article "Overview of Humanistic Psychology," and watch the video titled "Humanistic Theory." To better understand the societal factors that influenced humanistic theory in the mid-twentieth century, it may be necessary to do additional research. The combination of these sources will provide a solid base for informed opinions in the discussion. The idea is to bring content value to the discussion to enhance learning for all involved.

Task

A. Read Chapter 16, "Humanistic Psychologies," in your textbook, A History of Psychology: The Emergence of Science and Applications.

B. Read the article "Overview of Humanistic Psychology" on the Verywell Mind website.

C. Watch the YouTube video "Humanistic Theory" (6:05 min). (Closed captioning is provided.)

D. Navigate to the discussion topic and respond to the following discussion questions:

1. What was humanism offering that was new and appealing to people at the time?

2. What was happening in the larger culture of the 1960s that may have helped propel humanism into popularity?

3. Humanism places the person at the center of his or her life and considers self-actualization as the ultimate life goal. How does this compare with a biblical worldview of who we are and our ultimate purpose in life?

4. Does humanistic thought draw you closer to God? Explain.

E. Your initial post:

1. Should be 400 to 500 words.

2. Is due by the end of the fourth day of the workshop.

F. Your postings should also:

1. Be well developed by providing clear answers with evidence of critical thinking.

2. Add greater depth to the discussion by introducing new ideas.