In Reading About Different Theories of Personality in Chapter 14

question 84

Essay

In reading about different theories of personality in Chapter 14, you learned that one of the founders of humanist psychology was Abraham Maslow. According to Maslow, psychology focused too much on hostility, instincts, and repressed concepts (psychoanalytic view) and on reinforcers, punishers, and specific behaviours (behaviourist view). Instead, he suggested, psychology should focus on positive aspects of human nature and the characteristics of individuals who are striving for love, esteem, and self-actualization. It is interesting to note that the behaviourist tradition (discussed in Chapter 7) has shed light on ways that are effective and ineffective in the development of self-esteem and the nurturance of intrinsic talents and interests. Analyze the research on intrinsic and extrinsic rewards in light of Maslow's humanist theory.

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Definitions:

Cannon-Bard Theory

A theory of emotion that argues that physiological arousal and the emotional experience occur simultaneously and independently.

Two-Factor Theory

A psychological theory proposing that emotional experiences arise from physiological arousal followed by the attribution of a cause for that arousal.

James-Lange Theory

A conceptual framework suggesting that physiological responses to incidents cause emotions to emerge.

Spillover Effect

The phenomenon where an experience or emotion in one area of life influences feelings or behaviors in another area.