Exploring Self-Concept, Authenticity, and Self-Esteem in Humanistic Psychology

Humanistic Psychology focuses on studying the individual as a whole being. It is widely known as the third force in psychology. This perspective views the behaviour through the individual exhibiting it, instead of just observing their behaviour from the spectator’s point of view. It talks about how for individuals to achieve their full potential, their basic human needs must be met first then moving on to higher-level needs, and finally self-actualization. This approach highlights concepts like self-concept, self-esteem, and congruence to understand and nurture personal growth.

What does the Third Force in Psychology say about Self-Concept and Self-Esteem?

Humanistic psychology gives a detailed explanation of self-concept. It refers to the perception one holds about oneself. It operates on the notion that all humans are inherently good and are continuously striving for self-improvement, which can aid in reaching one’s full potential. To achieve what Maslow termed self-actualization, one must possess a positive self-concept and a healthy level of self-esteem.

The Impact of Self-Concept and Ideal Self on Self-Esteem

Carl Rogers, a key figure in humanistic psychology believed that self-concept consists of three components: ideal self, self-concept, and self-esteem. while Our self-concept is the current perception of ourselves while the ideal self is who we aspire to be. The interplay between our ideal self and self-concept influences our self-esteem.

Read More: Boosting Self-Esteem in Teenagers

Self-Esteem Emerges from Childhood

Individuals typically develop their self-concept from childhood. This is a period of self-worth. Our self-worth is often shaped by the judgments of others around us. Our self-awareness will be greater, when if our self-concept matches our desired personality (what we want to be). On the other hand, a sharp discrepancy between our preferred identity and self-concept can lower our self-esteem and end in feelings of incongruence.

Incongruence

Incongruence occurs when our ideal identity does not match our self-image. Rogers believes that this difference between the two sides of ourselves may be the root of the psychological issues people face later in life. He also pointed out that a mismatch between self-image and aspirations can negatively affect self-esteem as well as overall well-being

Humanistic Approach to Counseling

The primary goal of interpersonal counselling is to help individuals develop a positive self-image, which can boost their self-confidence. It is important to explore the beliefs and values ​​that they feel they need to address to achieve this accurate self-understanding where the self-image is positive and the person matches perfectly

Read More: Humanistic therapy: process, uses, types, and advantages

According to Humanistic Psychology, Positive Self-Esteem

Developing positive self-esteem requires people to move away from the “conditions of worth” imposed on them by others. For example, if a child is praised as soon as he or she wins, he or she may feel valued as soon as he or she achieves something, which can hurt their self-esteem This can also lead to feelings of inadequacy, where they begin to believe something is not good enough. To improve their self-esteem, it is important that they feel valued for what they are receiving.

Authenticity

Authenticity refers to the quality of being real or genuine. In this context, it means to be one’s real self. It is to fully know oneself by understanding one’s strengths and weaknesses, and also recognize what motivates them. It encompasses a state of self-acceptance and self-authorship, where an individual’s inward experiences and values align with their outward actions and expressions.

What does the third force in Psychology say about authenticity?

This concept of authenticity – who a person is, how they perceive themselves, and how they operate on those perceptions – is a crucial construct in humanistic psychology. It is also linked to self-esteem and well-being as well as lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Carl Rogers believed that everyone inherently wants to grow and become their best self, but this can be hindered if their needs are not met. Individuals thrive in nurturing environments, whereas those who face conditional love—like receiving appreciation only for achievement—may find it difficult to maintain a healthy sense of self-worth. For instance, babies are naturally authentic, they do not withhold themselves and express their needs openly. As they grow and become aware of themselves, their identity develops. An authentic parent helps a child feel valued by creating a safe environment and allowing them to explore and reach their full potential.

Authentic Living

Living authentically literally means being true to oneself, understanding one’s drives and motivations, and connecting with your strengths. Unfortunately, many people learn to behave in a specific way to gain love and acceptance, resulting in inauthentic lives. Authenticity is closely tied to real self-esteem, as working hard to overcome obstacles fosters a genuine sense of worth. However, many individuals often choose easier, inauthentic paths instead.

Read More: Why it’s Important to have High Self-Esteem, According to Psychology 

Authentic Self-Esteem

Authentic self-esteem is not merely to feel good about oneself. It doesn’t come from within. Naturally, we feel good by doing good for others, whether through big or small acts. However, narcissists and antisocial personalities mistakenly equate their self-centred behaviour with real self-esteem but this is not the case. Such behaviour is rooted in pathological conditions that can lead to more serious issues. The misinterpretation of their self-centred behaviour is what is known as defensive self-esteem, which can manifest into pathological forms of self-deception. Understanding real self-esteem involves two key factors namely,

1. Worthiness (feeling good about oneself)

2. Competence (doing the right thing when faced with a challenge)

A good balance between the two factors defines authentic self-esteem. Humanistic psychologists emphasize the person’s ability to exercise free will, the human need for meaning in life, and the role of self-esteem in growth or actualization. In order to investigate these deeper dimensions of human life, humanistic psychologists prefer qualitative methods like talking with people instead of doing experiments on them.

Read More: How To Overcome Low Self-Esteem?

Ways to Improve Authentic Self-Esteem

To improve authentic self-esteem, one effective way is to stop engaging in unworthy behaviours, like self-deception and manipulation. While this sounds simple, it can be challenging to implement, similar to failed New Year’s resolutions. More serious issues, such as addiction or neglecting responsibilities, require a significant amount of effort to change. Fortunately, research indicates that there are other effective ways to boost authentic self-esteem and overall well-being. Some ways might be,

• Be with people who make you feel valued.
• Replace self-criticism with positive affirmations.
• Do things that might bring you joy and fulfilment.
• Set achievable goals and avoid unrealistic optimism.
• Understand your true self and practice self-awareness.
• Try to be honest and open about your feelings. Embrace your flaws.
• Seek professional support if needed and gain insights about your self-esteem.
• Be kind to others, this might enhance your purpose in life and improve your connection with others.
• Do not take failures as reflections of self-worth but as opportunities for personal growth. Try to learn from mistakes.

Read More: 14 Effective Ways to Boost Self-Motivation and Achieve Your Goals

Conclusion

In humanistic psychology, the concepts like self-esteem and authenticity are deeply intertwined. It emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself while fostering a healthy sense of self-worth. Authenticity can impact one’s self-esteem. Authentic people tend to have high self-esteem when compared to inauthentic ones. The third force in psychology also talks about authentic self-esteem, which means the enhancement of one’s self-esteem in an authentic way. Some ways might be replacing negative self-criticism with positive affirmations, indulging in feel-good activities, surrounding yourself with people who value you, self-reflection to understand your true self, by setting realistic goals, and more.

FAQs

1. What is authenticity defined in humanistic psychology?

Authenticity in humanistic psychology is defined as being true to oneself, aligning one’s actions and values to their true self, and embracing one’s strengths and weaknesses.

2. Why is authenticity important for self-esteem?

Authenticity fosters genuine self-esteem because it encourages individuals to accept themselves as they are. Researchers have found that authentic people tend to have high self-esteem when compared to inauthentic ones.

3. What are some ways to enhance self-esteem?

To enhance self-esteem, try replacing negative self-criticism with positive affirmations, indulge in feel-good activities, surround yourself with people who value you, self-reflection to understand your true self, set realistic goals, and avoid unrealistic optimism.

4. How can I identify unworthy behaviours that affect my self-esteem?

Reflect on yourself and if you find yourself engaging in self-deception, manipulation, or comparing yourself negatively to others, these may be unworthy behaviors to address.