Which therapy encourages the client to seek personal growth and actualise his/her potential?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Humanistic-existential Therapy
The humanistic-existential therapies postulate that psychological distress arises from feelings of loneliness, alienation, and an inability to find meaning and genuine fulfilment in life. Human beings are motivated by the desire for personal growth and selfactualisation, and an innate need to grow emotionally. When these needs are curbed by society and family, human beings experience psychological distress. Self-actualisation is defined as an innate or inborn force that moves the person to become more complex, balanced, and integrated, i.e. achieving the complexity and balance without being fragmented. Integrated means a sense of whole, being a complete person, being in essence the same person in spite of the variety of experiences that one is subjected to. Just as lack of food or water causes distress, frustration of self-actualisation also causes distress.
Why other options are incorrect:
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy – Focuses on changing maladaptive thoughts and behaviors, not self-actualization.
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Behavioural Therapy – Focuses on modifying observable behavior through conditioning techniques.
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Cognitive Therapy – Aims to correct distorted thinking patterns, not on growth or potential.