Which of the following statements is true of humanistic psychologists?

• A. They argue that mental disorders are caused solely by chemical imbalances in the brain.
• B. They believe behavior is best understood through observable actions and reinforcement.
• C. They emphasize individual potential for growth and the importance of self-actualization.
• D. They focus primarily on unconscious motives and childhood experiences.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the main perspectives in psychology mentioned in the options: chemical imbalance relates to the biological perspective, observable actions and reinforcement relate to behaviorism, unconscious motives and childhood experiences relate to psychoanalysis, and individual potential and self-actualization relate to humanistic psychology.
2. Step 2: Recognize that humanistic psychologists focus on the positive aspects of human nature, emphasizing personal growth, free will, and self-actualization rather than just pathology or behavior alone.
3. Step 3: Identify that the statement 'They emphasize individual potential for growth and the importance of self-actualization' aligns with the core principles of humanistic psychology, as proposed by theorists like Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow.
4. Step 4: Contrast this with the other options, which correspond to different psychological approaches: chemical imbalances (biological), observable behavior and reinforcement (behaviorism), and unconscious motives and childhood experiences (psychoanalysis).
5. Step 5: Conclude that the true statement about humanistic psychologists is the one emphasizing individual potential and self-actualization, reflecting their holistic and positive view of human nature.