Humanistic and Existential Personality Theories
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PSY/405
Date
Teacher
University

Humanistic and Existential Personality Theories
In a perfect world, there would only be one, if not two different types of personality theories that psychologists would have to choose from in order to diagnose and treat their patients with, but variety, as they say, is the spice of life. In addition to that of psychodynamic personality theories, another set of equally important, and perhaps more interesting are that of humanistic and existential theories, made popular by psychologists Carl Rodger and Abraham Maslow.
Humanistic and Existential Analysis Individual Personalities
Humanistic and Existential theories focus on the different aspects …show more content…

Of course they are not limited to those needs but those are some prime examples. With those needs one will engage in interpersonal relationships in a way that these needs will be met. For example, one needs respect from others so one will not treat others poorly because they know that if they do they will be treated poorly as well. One’s need for intimacy and sex will motivate one to seek out a mate, to care for them, woo them, to establish a meaningful relationship, etc.
Carl Roger developed person-centered theory, which suggests that the important values and choices people have and make are within their control (Feist & Feist, 2009). With this humanistic theory, it is in a person’s own control how they have interpersonal relationships. Although, if that person wants healthy relationships they know that they must behave accordingly; if they behave poorly, they will, by choice, lose or damage interpersonal relationships they may have. Between the two humanistic theories, Maslow’s theory is based off of needs which provide the motivation and guide behavior when having interpersonal relationships, and Rodger’s is based on the fact that one is in control of their behavior, so if they want or need something it is up to them to make the right choices which enable them to attain it.
Existential theories seem to be associated with one’s comfort zone. People must intentionally make life decisions that