Choose two of the following schools of thought for your assignment: Structuralism, Functionalism, Psychoanalytic, Behaviorism, Humanistic, Cognitive, and Gestalt.

Complete the following table by inputting information as it relates to the schools of thought that you have selected.

School Name

School Name

History
(When and why did it arise.)

Prominent Figure(s)

Basic Beliefs

How would a psychologist who subscribes to this school of thought explain the problem of violence?

Weaknesses/Strengths of School

What is your personal opinion about this school of thought? Does this ring true to you? Explain your answer.

1 answer

Sure! I'll compare and contrast Behaviorism and Humanistic Psychology in the format you've provided:

| School Name | School Name | |----------------------------------|-----------------------------------| | Behaviorism | Humanistic Psychology | | History | Arising in the early 20th century (1920s), Behaviorism emerged as a reaction against introspective methods of studying psychology, focusing instead on observable behavior. It arose due to a desire for psychology to become a more scientific and objective discipline. | Developed in the 1940s and 1950s, Humanistic Psychology emerged as a response to both Psychoanalysis and Behaviorism. It arose from the need to address the subjective experience of individuals, focusing on personal growth and self-actualization. | | Prominent Figure(s) | John B. Watson, B.F. Skinner, Ivan Pavlov | Carl Rogers, Abraham Maslow | | Basic Beliefs | Behaviorism posits that all behaviors are learned through interaction with the environment. The focus is on observable behavior and the role of reinforcement and punishment in shaping behavior. | Humanistic Psychology emphasizes individual potential and stresses the importance of growth and self-actualization. It believes in the inherent goodness of people and focuses on the subjective experience of individuals. | | Explanation of Violence | A behaviorist might explain violence as learned behavior that can result from environmental influences, such as reinforcement of aggressive behavior through observation or direct rewards. Violence could be seen as a conditioned response to specific stimuli. | A humanistic psychologist might explain violence as a symptom of unmet needs, such as lack of belonging or self-esteem. They may view violent behavior as a cry for help or a means to express deep emotional pain rather than as a simple learned behavior. | | Weaknesses/Strengths of School | Strengths: Strong emphasis on empirical research and observable outcomes, which has led to effective behavioral therapies. <br> Weaknesses: Oversimplifies human behavior by ignoring thoughts, emotions, and innate qualities. | Strengths: Recognizes the complexity of human experience and the importance of personal growth; emphasizes subjective experience and self-fulfillment. <br> Weaknesses: Can be seen as too idealistic and lacks empirical rigor in comparison to other schools of thought. | | Personal Opinion | I find Behaviorism to be quite valuable, particularly its scientific approach to mental processes. However, I believe it lacks depth in addressing the complexities of human emotions and cognition. I appreciate its contributions, especially in therapy, but am more drawn to theories that consider subjective experiences. | I resonate with Humanistic Psychology, as it emphasizes the importance of personal experience and growth. I believe that understanding an individual's view of the world is crucial for personal development. Its holistic approach aligns with my beliefs about the potential for change and growth within each person. |

Feel free to make any adjustments based on your thoughts or further requirements!