| Theory | Assumptions | Reliability | Validity | Application |
| Holistic-Dynamic Theory | Holistic-Dynamic Theorywhich was developed by Abraham Maslow is based on the assumption that there is the so-called hierarchy of needs. It comprises physiological necessities such as breathing or eating, social needs like craving for friendship, intimacy and love; esteem needs, for example, the desire to be successful. The final element of this system is yearning for Self-actualization, for instance, willingness to fulfill ones potential and become creative (Maslow as cited in Decarvalho, 1991, p 40). Most importantly, according to this approach, each individual primarily strives to satiate his most basic desires, and only afterwards he or she moves to the higher level of this hierarchy. Hence, the majority of mental disorders are caused by the inability to actualize oneself. Overall, this idea is very similar to Freudian psychology, yet, it is more elaborated. | Its reliability has not been fully proven, because psychologists and behavioral scientists combine Holistic-Dynamic Theory with other methods of therapy. Nonetheless, Maslow’s ideas have turned to be quite effective in advertising industry that makes full use of various person’s desires (Mohan, 1989). | This theory has often been criticized. It is pointed out that a human being does not necessarily prioritize his or her desires. In fact, the person may not be even aware of them, because some of them exist only at the level of sub- consciousness (Decarvalho, 1991). Furthermore, individuals can be driven by two or even more stimuli at the same time. | It is occasionally employed by therapists or family counselors who try to identify the source of personal or relationship problem and dissatisfaction. Moreover, Holistic-Dynamic Theory is rather popular among advertisers as knowledge about human needs and desires is essential for this industry (Mohan, 1989, p 68). |
| Person-Centered Theory | This theory, worked out by Carl Rogers, relies on the premise that human consciousness consists of two elements: 1) the perceived Self, in other words, how person sees oneself; 2) and the desired self or the ideal image of oneself, which includes competence, creativity, the feeling of belonging and so forth. The root cause of many mental illnesses is the failure to create this ideal image of oneself (Rogers as cited in Corey, 2008, p 169). Additionally, personality is shaped through interactions with social environment (family, friend, peers, mass media etc). | Practice is the most important criterion for the reliability of any theory and there is sufficient evidence indicating that the premises of Person-Centered Theory are grounded: its principles have found practical application in psychotherapy and this method of counseling normally yields good results (Corey, 2008). | Overall, Carl Rogers views are consistent with other psychological personality theories. We should point out that the scholar enumerates the characteristics of a fully functioning person: he mentions openness to experience, self-confidence, creativity and other features (Rogers as cited in Corey, 2008, p 170). Yet, it is hardly possible to define a fully functioning person because this notion is always subjective and its elements are too numerous or even incalculable. | This approach is normally utilized in psychotherapy. The key task of the psychologist is to identify those obstacles which prevent the person from becoming the desired self. It is vital to place the patient in an environment which would help him to fulfill his potential. Sometimes, the therapist has to show to the patients that his goals are not realistic without hurting the feelings of this individual. Overall, the key objective is to reconcile the persons abilities with his ambitions (Corey, 2008). |
| Existential Psychological Theory | Existential psychology is founded on the following tenets: people strive to find meaning in their lives, in other words, the purpose of existence. Provided the individual cannot see this meaning he or she feels vulnerable and anxious. Moreover, each human being wants to believe that his or her life is unique, and nobody else can take control of it. According to this approach, each person wants to prove that he or she is independent of the external forces, or society, to be more exact. Inability to do so leads to fears, feeling of abandonment, indecision, depression or even suicide (Nesti, 2004). | It is quite difficult to assess the reliability of this approach because existential physiology is frequently combined with other personality theories. Additionally, its major ideas are derived from literary works of such authors as Albert Camus, Jean-Paul Sartre, and at this point they are not systematized. | The validity of this approach has often been questioned. There are several reasons for such a critical attitude of many scholars: 1) existential psychology does not take into account subconscious forces (primitive instincts and desires). Secondly, it does not offer clear guidelines as to how to resolve the conflict between social environment and personal search for freedom and autonomy This is the main reason why this psychological theory does not enjoy popularity among practitioners. | Existential Psychological Theoryis sometimes used in counseling but it is always alternated with other therapeutic methods like psychoanalysis, behaviorism, or cognitivism. The main duty of the counselor is to show that the patients feeling of angst is not substantiated, and he is not alone in this world. |
Reference
Corey, G. (2008). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy. New York: Cengage Learning EMEA.
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Decarvalho, R. J. (1991). The Founders of Humanistic Psychology. New York: Praeger Publishers.
Mohan. M (1989). Advertising Management: Concepts and Cases. New Delhi: Tata McGraw-Hill.
Nesti, M.(2004). Existential Psychology and Sport: Theory and Application. New York: Routledge.