Which psychological perspective focuses on personal growth and self-actualization?

Humanistic psychology is the correct answer as it emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization as central tenets of human experience. This perspective arose in response to the limitations of both psychoanalysis and behaviorism, focusing instead on individual potential and the importance of free will in human development. Humanistic psychologists, such as Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, propose that individuals have an inherent drive towards becoming the best versions of themselves, often referred to as self-actualization. This perspective prioritizes personal experiences, feelings, and the capacity for self-fulfillment, aiming to understand how people can realize their potential.

In contrast, the other psychological perspectives focus on different aspects of human behavior. Behavioral psychology primarily examines observable behavior and the effects of the environment through conditioning. Cognitive psychology looks at mental processes, such as thinking, memory, and problem-solving but does not emphasize personal growth in the same way. Social psychology studies how individuals are influenced by social contexts and interactions, focusing on group dynamics and social behavior rather than individual self-actualization.