Humanistic

Humanistic is an adjective describing approaches, theories, or movements rooted in humanism, a worldview that emphasizes human value, agency, and dignity. In practice, humanistic perspectives seek to understand and support human flourishing, focusing on the subjective experience of individuals, their goals, and their capacity for growth, rather than reducing behavior to external mechanisms or rigid rules.

In psychology, humanistic psychology developed in the 1950s and 1960s as a reaction against psychoanalytic theory and behaviorism. Its proponents, most notably Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers, emphasized self-actualization, personal growth, authenticity, and the primacy of conscious experience. Therapeutic approaches such as client-centered therapy (non-directive, empathetic, and unconditional positive regard) and gestalt therapy highlight the therapeutic relationship and the person’s capacity to choose and heal.

In education and related fields, humanistic approaches advocate student-centered learning, holistic development, and intrinsic motivation, aiming to cultivate self-esteem, empathy, creativity, and responsibility. In research and applied disciplines, humanistic methods emphasize meaning, context, and values, often employing qualitative techniques to understand lived experiences.

In ethics and secular culture, humanistic thought underpins secular humanism and many human rights frameworks, stressing the worth of all people and the importance of reason, compassion, and social justice without reliance on religious authority.