Humanistic theory of Motivation

Introduction

1. Humanistic psychology theories began to grow in popularity during the 1950s.
2. While earlier theories often focused on abnormal behavior and psychological problems.
3. Humanist theories instead emphasized the basic goodness of human beings.

Motivation

The process that initiates, guides and maintains goal-oriented behaviors. 

Motivation is what causes us to act, whether it is getting a glass of water to reduce thirst or reading a book to gain knowledge.

There two theorists who mainly talk about Humanistic Approach of Motivation and are
1) Carl Roger  (1902 - 1987)

                           
2) Abraham Maslow (1908 - 1970)

1) Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

This theory basically talks about the human factor and their needs. A person to become in a state where he reaches his self-actualization he need to fulfill is basic and other needs.

There are 5 level of need addressed in this theory;

1) Physiological Needs (such as Food, shelter, clothing etc.)

2) Safety Needs (Physical safety and security)

3) Social Needs (Social interaction with others, Relationships, group memberships etc)

4) Self Esteem (Self confidence of a person, recognition and approval of the person)

5) Self-actualization (Self fulfillment, social growth, pride, accomplishment etc)

There are some criticism against this theory. They suggest that this theory is not applicable for the people who needs special care.

2) Carl Roger's Humanistic Personality Theory 

Carl Roger supported Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs theory. In this theory basically talk about genuineness, acceptance and empathy.

The humanistic approach states that the self is composed of concepts unique to ourselves.e humanistic approach states that the self is composed of concepts unique to ourselves. 

Self-actualization occurs when a person’s “ideal self” (i.e. who they would like to be) is congruent with their actual behavior (self-image).  Rogers describes an individual who is actualizing as a fully functioning person. The main determinant of whether we will become self-actualized is childhood experience.

The self-concept includes three components:-

1)Self worth (or self-esteem)

2)Self-image 

3)Ideal self 

Conclusion
Humanistic theories of motivation are based on the idea that people also have strong cognitive reasons to perform various actions

In both the theories, humans are constantly reacting with their subjective reality - changes continuously in the development of self-concept, positive regard is key.

Therefore if a person who want to fulfill his needs he need to think positive aspect of it and try get maximum out of it.

References

https://www.boundless.com/psychology/personality/the-humanistic-perspective/rogers-theory/

https://www.boundless.com/psychology/the-science-of-psychology/history-of-psychology/humanistic-perspective/