Carl Rogers' Person-Centered Theory

Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of Carl Rogers' person-centered approach?

Analyzing the client's childhood experiences

Focusing on the therapist's own feelings and experiences

Using directive techniques to promote change

Understanding individuals as unique and self-actualizing beings (correct)

According to Rogers, unconditional positive regard means that the therapist should offer criticism and feedback to the client.

False

What is the term for the innate tendency towards self-actualization, according to Rogers?

Intrinsic Motivation

Rogers described the ideal individual as being open to experience, living in the ______________, and engaging in continuous learning and growth.

present Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the criticisms of Rogers' approach?

It lacks clear direction and guidance for clients Signup and view all the answers

Rogers' approach is highly structured and goal-oriented.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the therapy approach influenced by Rogers' ideas?

Client-Centered Therapy Signup and view all the answers

Rogers' three core conditions for therapy are congruence, unconditional positive regard, and ______________.

empathic understanding Signup and view all the answers

Match the following key concepts with their definitions:

Empathic Understanding = Understanding the client's subjective experience and feelings Unconditional Positive Regard = Providing a non-judgmental and accepting attitude towards the client Congruence = Focusing on the therapist's own feelings and experiences Signup and view all the answers

Rogers believed that individuals are driven by external motivations rather than internal motivations.

False Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Theory of Carl Rogers

Key Concepts

Person-Centered Approach: Rogers' theory emphasizes the importance of understanding individuals as unique and self-actualizing beings.
Unconditional Positive Regard: Rogers believed that therapists should provide a non-judgmental and accepting attitude towards clients, promoting a sense of safety and trust.
Empathic Understanding: Therapists should strive to understand clients' subjective experiences and feelings, rather than imposing their own interpretations.

Rogers' Three Core Conditions

Congruence: The therapist should be genuine, authentic, and transparent in their interactions with the client.
Unconditional Positive Regard: The therapist should provide a non-judgmental and accepting attitude towards the client.
Empathic Understanding: The therapist should strive to understand the client's subjective experience and feelings.

Self-Actualization

Intrinsic Motivation: Rogers believed that individuals have an innate tendency towards self-actualization, which is driven by internal motivations rather than external pressures.
Fully Functioning Person: Rogers described the ideal individual as being open to experience, living in the present, and engaging in continuous learning and growth.

Criticisms and Limitations

Lack of Structure: Rogers' approach has been criticized for being too non-directive, leaving clients without clear direction or guidance.
Overemphasis on Subjectivity: Rogers' focus on subjective experience has been criticized for neglecting the importance of objective reality and external factors.

Applications and Influence

Client-Centered Therapy: Rogers' approach has been influential in the development of client-centered therapy, which emphasizes empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard.
Education and Counseling: Rogers' ideas have been applied in educational and counseling settings, promoting student-centered learning and personalized guidance.