Which approach emphasizes the study of the whole person and the uniqueness of each individual, focusing on self growth and unconditional positive regard toward fulfilling potential?

• A. Humanistic Psychology
• B. Psychoanalytic Theory
• C. Trait Theory
• D. Behaviorism

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that humanistic psychology treats a person as a whole, unique individual with growth potential. It centers on self-growth, self-concept, and reaching one’s full potential, often through a belief in free will and personal meaning. Unconditional positive regard—accepting and supportive attitudes regardless of behavior—is a cornerstone of this view, especially in Carl Rogers’ person-centered approach, because such regard helps people develop a healthy self-concept and move toward self-actualization. This perspective also emphasizes subjective experience and the intrinsic drive to grow, rather than just external rewards or hidden urges.

Psychoanalytic theory, by contrast, focuses on unconscious conflicts and early childhood experiences shaping behavior. Trait theory looks at stable characteristics that make up personality, often measured across situations. Behaviorism emphasizes observable actions and how environment reinforces or punishes behavior. The description best matches humanistic psychology because it centers the whole person, uniqueness, self-growth, and supportive conditions that enable fulfilling potential.