Humanism places the individual person at the center. It assumes that people carry the potential for development and meaningful participation in society.
This perspective emphasizes autonomy, self-responsibility, and personal growth. In therapy and coaching, this means the client is the expert for their own life.
Historically, humanism emerged as a counterpoint to rigid authority structures and has shaped many modern counseling methods.
Humanistic psychology principles
- The human being is more than the sum of parts
- Life is shaped through relationships
- People can shape their lives consciously
- Behavior is influenced by values and meaning