Which psychological perspective focuses on conscious thoughts and experiences?

The humanistic perspective emphasizes the study of conscious thoughts and experiences, particularly regarding personal growth and self-actualization. This perspective, championed by figures like Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, focuses on the individual's potential and stresses the importance of subjective experiences. It acknowledges how personal perceptions, feelings, and unique experiences shape a person's behavior and mental processes.

In humanistic psychology, consciousness is seen as an integral part of understanding human behavior, as it allows individuals to reflect upon their experiences and make meaning of their lives. This perspective promotes a positive, holistic view of human nature, focusing on conditions that foster healthy psychological development, such as empathy and unconditional positive regard.

The other perspectives mentioned have differing focuses: the psychoanalytic perspective primarily examines unconscious processes and internal conflicts; the cognitive perspective looks at mental processes but often emphasizes information processing and problem-solving rather than the subjective human experience; and the behavioral perspective concentrates on observable behaviors and the influence of the environment, typically excluding internal mental states from its analysis. This contrast highlights why the humanistic approach is distinct in its focus on conscious thought and subjective experience.