Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Humanists are psychologists who emphasize the importance of individual experience, personal growth, and self-fulfillment in understanding human behavior. They focus on the potential for personal development and self-actualization.
Related terms
Existentialism: This term refers to a philosophical perspective that emphasizes individual freedom and responsibility in creating meaning and purpose in life.
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: This psychological theory by Abraham Maslow suggests that humans have a series of needs (physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, self-actualization) which must be met in order for personal growth and fulfillment to occur.
This is the highest level of psychological development according to Maslow. It refers to the realization of one's full potential and the desire for personal growth.