Question

'My therapist is wonderful She always points out my positive traits. She dwells on my uniquenctis and strergth as an individual. I feel much more confident about myself- as if \(\mathrm{Im}\) really growing and reaching my potential." The therapist being described most likely follows a ______ perspective.

Short answer

The therapist being described most likely follows a Humanistic perspective.

Step-by-step solution

Identify Given Information

From the description, we can deduce that the therapist in question places emphasis on the patient's individual strengths, positive traits, and self-growth towards achieving their potential. She appears to promote encouragement and self-awareness in her approach.

understand different psychological perspectives

To solve this, we must be familiarized with the different psychological perspectives. Some of these include the psychoanalytic, cognitive, behavioral, social-cultural, and humanistic perspectives.

Match the Description to a Psychological Perspective

The therapist's approach focused on self-growth, self-actualization, and individual strengths aligns with the principles of the humanistic perspective of psychology. This approach emphasizes the positive nature and capacity for growth in individuals.

Key concepts

Self-Actualization

The concept of self-actualization is a cornerstone in humanistic psychology, which suggests that every person has the potential to realize their own unique talents and capabilities. According to the theory first introduced by Abraham Maslow, self-actualization is at the peak of a hierarchy of needs—a model that starts with the most basic physiological needs and progresses through safety, love and belonging, esteem, and finally self-actualization.

Self-actualized individuals are characterized by a true representation of themselves, fulfillment of their potentials, and a grasp of their place in the world. They embrace their individuality, show creativity, and possess a deep understanding of themselves and others. In the context of the therapeutic exercise provided, the therapist's encouragement toward recognizing and nurturing the patient's own strengths and virtues is conducive to the pursuit of self-actualization. This process is highly personal and involves a continuous journey of growth and self-improvement.

An individual embarking on this journey might pursue various avenues of personal growth such as developing new skills, engaging in reflective practices or embarking on meaningful life challenges. It's about becoming more 'you' in the most profound sense.

Positive Psychology

Positive psychology is a relatively new branch of psychology that shifts the focus from treating mental illness to enhancing individual well-being. This field emphasizes the positive influences in life, such as character strengths, optimistic thinking, and constructive experiences. The goal of positive psychology is to help individuals live fulfilling and engaging lives by promoting aspects like happiness, resilience, and meaning.

Positive psychology practitioners explore what makes life worth living and help people to cultivate what is best within themselves. Instead of merely addressing dysfunction, this perspective values the importance of fostering strengths and virtues that enable individuals and communities to thrive. In the exercise, the therapist's approach aligns with positive psychology as she emphasizes the client's positive traits and strengths rather than focusing solely on their problems or shortcomings.

This approach often includes techniques like practicing gratitude, learning to savor positive experiences, and utilizing one's strengths in new ways. It has practical implications not just in therapy, but in educational settings, workplaces, and personal development.

Individual Strengths

Individual strengths are the unique attributes and abilities that each person possesses. These qualities contribute to how we engage with our environment, overcome challenges, and achieve goals. In the humanistic perspective of psychology, recognizing and building upon each person's individual strengths is critical to personal growth and fulfillment of one's potential.

In the problem from the textbook, the therapist's method involves dwelling on the client's unique abilities and strengths. This helps individuals build self-esteem and confidence, which are essential components in the journey toward self-actualization and overall well-being. The identification and utilization of individual strengths are essential not only in therapeutic settings but in daily life. Whether through personal reflection, receiving feedback from others, or formal assessments, understanding our strengths can influence our choices, relationships, and the pursuit of our goals.

By focusing on their strengths, individuals are more likely to engage in activities that resonate with their personal values and interests, leading to greater enjoyment and success in various endeavors. The positive reinforcement received when using one's strengths can also support a more resilient and optimistic mindset.