Humanistic models partly developed as a reaction against what appeared to be the determinism implicit in psychoanalysis and behaviourism. In psychoanalysis, especially if understood from a Freudian perspective before object relations theory, there was a rather pessimistic view of human nature that portrayed people as basically driven by sexual and aggressive impulses that have to be contained. Behaviourism was also seen as objectifying and dehumanizing, emphasizing environmental forces as determinants of behaviour. In contrast, the humanistic approach was to emphasize human nature as essentially positive, valued choice, values and purpose in life; and psychopathology is seen as the failure to fulfil the natural potential for personal growth. Read the rest of this entry »