Which statement about personal growth and humanistic psychology is supported by the notes?

Which statement about personal growth and humanistic psychology is supported by the notes?

• A. People have free will and can grow
• B. People cannot change
• C. Growth is determined entirely by biology
• D. Growth is irrelevant

Answer: (A)

Growth and personal development are central to humanistic psychology, which holds that people have free will and can move toward their best self. This approach sees individuals as active agents who can choose to grow rather than being ruled by biology or external pressures. Maslow’s idea of self-actualization frames growth as an inherent drive to fulfill one’s potential, while Rogers’ client-centered therapy emphasizes creating the right conditions—like empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuine congruence—that foster that growth. Because of this emphasis on agency and the possibility of change, the statement that people have free will and can grow best captures what humanistic notes are conveying. Other views—saying growth cannot happen, is determined solely by biology, or is irrelevant—don’t align with this perspective, which centers on personal choice and the capacity for development.

Growth and personal development are central to humanistic psychology, which holds that people have free will and can move toward their best self. This approach sees individuals as active agents who can choose to grow rather than being ruled by biology or external pressures. Maslow’s idea of self-actualization frames growth as an inherent drive to fulfill one’s potential, while Rogers’ client-centered therapy emphasizes creating the right conditions—like empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuine congruence—that foster that growth. Because of this emphasis on agency and the possibility of change, the statement that people have free will and can grow best captures what humanistic notes are conveying. Other views—saying growth cannot happen, is determined solely by biology, or is irrelevant—don’t align with this perspective, which centers on personal choice and the capacity for development.