Question

Compare and contrast.

Behavioural perspective - Humanistic perspective to abnormality

Answer 1

Behavioural perspective explains that abnormal behaviour is due to a failure to learn appropriate behaviours or due to learning of maladaptive behaviours. Ineffective techniques of learning to cope with stress causes abnormality. The treatment for this is to reshape or to eliminate the maladaptive behaviour and replace it with more adaptive skills of coping. For this, the principles of reinforcement, learning, modelling, etc., may be used.
Humanistic perspective attributes abnormal behaviours to blocked personal growth. Human beings are driven to grow, change, adapt and develop to their fullest potential. If this does not happen, it leads to problems. i.e., if there is incongruence between the real self and ideal self or overdependence on the positive regard of others, then abnormal behaviour is a consequence. The therapy is focused on helping the person become more inner-directed, develop self awareness towards enhanced personal growth.