Humanistic Psychology

Humanistic psychology is a psychological perspective which rose to prominence in the mid-20th century. With its roots running from Socrates through the Renaissance, this approach emphasises an individual's inherent drive towards self-actualization.

Humanistic psychology is sometimes referred to as a "third force," as distinct from the two more traditional approaches to psychology, psychoanalysis and behaviorism. It typically holds that people are inherently good. It adopts a holistic approach to human existence and pays special attention to such phenomena as creativity, free will, and human potential. Its ideas have influenced the theory and practice of education and social work, particularly in North America, as well as the emerging field of transpersonal psychology. Its principal U.S. professional organizations are the Association for Humanistic Psychology and the Society for Humanistic Psychology (Division 32 of the American Psychological Association).