Question

Post an explanation of the role of theory in research. Next, identify a theory in your Psychology and explain its basic tenets. Then, with this theory in mind, consider your answer to the following question posed by Dr. Burkholder in last week’s reading: “What do I have to believe about the world and about human beings in order for me to accept or use this theory?” Finally, describe the extent to which the epistemological and ontological assumptions of your chosen theory align with the philosophical orientation that reflects your worldview

Answer 1

What is a theory?

• A theory is a model or framework for observation and understanding, which shapes both what we see and how we see it. The theory allows the researcher to make links between the abstract and the concrete; the theoretical and the empirical; thought statements and observational statements etc.
• A theory predicts the relationship between variables.
• A theory has an empirical value.
• It provides a context for predictions.
• A theory guides research and creates its ideas.
• It has the capacity to generate new research.

Role of theory in research:

• Provides a better understanding of research data.
• A theory provides the basis of knowledge to which other researchers contribute.
• Theory increases a researcher’s awareness of interconnections with the data.
• A theory allows the researcher to make connections between the abstract and the concrete.
• There is a dependable relationship between theory and research.  
• A theory is not fixed; it is provisional, open to revision and grows into more accurate and comprehensive explanations about the make-up and operation of the social world.

Humanistic Approach

In the 1950s, some psychologists began a school of psychology called humanism.

*Humanistic psychologists try to see people’s lives as those people would see them. They emphasize the concept of "free will" and that we can actively develop ourselves to our highest potential and reach self-actualization.

The humanistic theory focuses on the conscious as opposed to the unconscious. It also says that people are inherently good and that we are self-motivated to improve. It also says that we always want to improve because we want to reach self-actualization.

The first major theorist was Abraham Maslow and he formed the hierarchy of needs.

First, the physiological need must be fulfilled and then one can work their way up. Lastly, self-actualization is fulfilled. Maslow believed that only 1% reaches self-actualization.

Another humanistic theorist Carl Rogers used Maslow's idea and the quality he described to say that humans are nurtured early in life. He said that self-actualization is a constant growth process that is nurtured in a growth promoting climate. In order for the climate to reach self-actualization, two conditions need to be met. First being growth is nurtured when the individual is genuine. Second is that growth needs to be nurtured through acceptance and acceptance from others.One must receive acceptance and unconditional positive regard from others.

To answer the question "What do I have to believe about the world and about human beings in order for me to accept or use this theory?”

A parent may get upset with their child and punish them for doing something wrong but they are still going to love their child and regard their child without any conditions. This learns us to be open and learn without fearing others are going to look at us differently if we do something wrong. A genuine relationship with others and acceptance is what allows us to live up to the ideals of our true real self, vs this ideal self which is bounded by conditions that people rarely can live up to.

Both Rogers and Maslow said a central feature of one's personality is self-concept and it is achieved when genuineness and acceptance are brought together and achieve a growth promoting climate.As individuals, we tend to perceive the world positively and tend to answer the question."Who am I?" and that is what the Humanistic theory talks about.