In which aspect does the Humanistic approach primarily differ from other psychological approaches?

The Humanistic approach primarily differs from other psychological approaches in its focus on individual potential and self-actualization. This perspective emphasizes the inherent goodness of people and their capacity for personal growth, self-awareness, and the realization of their potential. Unlike psychodynamic theories that prioritize unconscious drives and past experiences or behavioral approaches that center on observable behaviors, the Humanistic approach is fundamentally optimistic and encourages a view of individuals as active agents in their own lives. It is particularly associated with theorists like Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, who introduced concepts such as unconditional positive regard and the hierarchy of needs, respectively.

In contrast, other options either emphasize elements that are not central to the Humanistic perspective or focus on different aspects of psychological functioning altogether. For instance, the study of unconscious drives pertains more closely to psychodynamic theories. The analysis of behavior patterns is a hallmark of behavioral theories, while the study of developmental stages is typically the focus of developmental psychology. The uniqueness of the Humanistic approach lies in its affirmation of human potential, fostering self-identity, and promoting personal growth as key components of psychological well-being.