General systems theory and humanistic psychology: an approach

Abstract

Humanistic Psychology arose in reaction to the restrictive paradigms of behaviorism and orthodox psychoanalysis. However, Humanistic Psychology has yet to provide a consistent philosophical and methodological framework for the development and evaluation of models, methods, research, theories and therapies. Additionally, there exists no commonly shared structure for the translation and communication of intuitive recognitions and clinical findings. General Systems Theory offers a comprehensive methodology, rooted in the natural sciences, which may be applied to clarify and communicate many aspects of Humanistic Psychology. This paper demonstrates the common philosophical perspectives of General Systems Theory in terms of the challenges to Humanistic Psychology, and presents the concerns expressed by Humanistic Psychologists regarding the use of General Systems Theory.