___________________theory emphasizes that humans are positively motivated and progress toward higher levels of functioning. a. Humanistic b. Psychoanalytic c. Social learning d. Trait

a. Humanistic

The humanistic theory emphasizes that humans have an inherent potential for self-awareness, personal growth, and psychological healing. This approach is optimistic and focuses on the human capacity for self-direction and understanding oneself. It asserts that individuals are driven to achieve their maximum potential and that they continually seek to grow and improve themselves.

Humanistic psychologists believe that every person has a strong desire to realize their full potential, to reach a level of "self-actualization." The most famous humanistic psychologists are Abraham Maslow, who developed the hierarchy of needs, and Carl Rogers, who created client-centered therapy and emphasized the concept of unconditional positive regard.

The theory contrasts with the psychoanalytic perspective, which focuses on unconscious motivations and conflicts, and the social learning theory, which emphasizes the role of the environment and learning in shaping behavior. The trait theory, on the other hand, focuses on the identification and measurement of personality characteristics.