Carl Rogers and the Self Concept

Carl Rogers and the Study of Self

• Carl Rogers was a counselling psychologist and a key figure in the development of the humanistic approach to personality.
• He collaborated with Abraham Maslow, sharing the belief that humans are inherently goal-directed.
• Rogers divided the concept of self into two categories: the ideal self and the real self.
• The ideal self represents the individual one aspires to be, while the real self reflects the individual's actual condition.
• Achieving consistency between the ideal and real selves is crucial for personal development and mental well-being.

Unity and Self-Concept

• High unity occurs when perceptions of the real self and ideal self closely align, leading to an accurate self-concept.
• A well-aligned self-concept fosters a greater sense of self-worth and contributes to a healthy, productive life.
• Discrepancies between the ideal and real selves can result in incongruence, a state that Rogers identified as detrimental and linked to maladjustment.

Self-Actualization and Fully Functioning People

• Rogers proposed that congruence between the ideal and real self facilitates self-actualization, which represents the maximum potential of an individual.
• Individuals who achieve this congruence are termed "fully functioning people."
• Lack of harmony between the ideal and real selves may lead to anxiety and stress, undermining personal growth.

Influence of the External Environment

• Rogers emphasized the role of the external environment in fostering unity in self-concepts.
• Unconditional positive regard from significant others—accepting and valuing an individual without conditions—is vital for achieving personal worth and self-actualization.
• This acceptance allows individuals to internalize a sense of value, contributing positively to their self-concept and psychological well-being.