Scenario:
Humanistic theories have had a major affect on psychology as well as pop culture. Many psychologists now accept the idea that when it comes to personality, people’s subjective experiences have more weight than objective reality. Humanistic psychologists’ focus on healthy people, rather than troubled people, has also been a particularly helpful contribution.
However, critics of humanistic theories maintain numerous arguments:
• Humanistic theories are too naïvely optimistic and fail to provide insight in the evil side of human nature.
• Humanistic theories, like psychodynamic theories, can’t be easily tested.
• Many concepts in humanistic psychology, like that of the self-actualized person, are vague and subjective. Some critics argue that this concept might reflect Maslow’s own values and ideals.
• Humanistic psychology is biased toward individualistic values.
Question:
Discuss and illustrate out any two of the above criticisms, supporting your arguments with concrete instances.