Existential psychology has four basic themes. Define the themes. How are those themes different from humanistic theory themes of positive psychology and suffering of existentialism?
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Existential psychology, much like humanistic psychology, explores the subjective experiences and the search for meaning in life. It focuses on the unique individual and their experience of existence. The four basic themes in existential psychology are:
1. Freedom and Responsibility: This theme emphasizes that individuals have the freedom to make choices and are responsible for the consequences of those choices. Existential psychology acknowledges the existential anxiety that arises from the realization of personal responsibility.
2. Search for Meaning: Existential psychology emphasizes that individuals must confront and grapple with the ultimate questions of existence, such as the purpose and meaning of life. It explores how individuals find or create their own sense of meaning amid the challenges and uncertainties of existence.
3. Authenticity and Self-awareness: This theme highlights the importance of being true to oneself and living an authentic life congruent with one's values and beliefs. Existential psychology emphasizes the need for self-awareness and encourages individuals to examine their choices and motivations.
4. Existential Anxiety and Despair: Existential psychology recognizes the inherent existential anxiety that arises from the awareness of life's transience, uncertainty, and the inevitability of death. It acknowledges the possibility of existential despair when individuals struggle to find meaning in their lives.
While there are similarities between existential psychology and positive psychology/humanistic theories, there are also notable differences:
Positive psychology focuses on promoting well-being, happiness, and flourishing, emphasizing positive qualities and strengths within individuals. It seeks to understand what makes life worth living.
Existential psychology, on the other hand, acknowledges that the human experience encompasses both positive and negative aspects. It recognizes that suffering, existential anxiety, and the search for meaning are inherent in the human condition.
Existential psychology also addresses the darker aspects of existence, such as existential despair and confronts the realities of death, whereas positive psychology generally seeks to promote positive emotions and experiences.
Overall, while positive psychology and existential psychology overlap in their emphasis on the individual and the search for meaning, existential psychology delves deeper into the complexities, uncertainties, and existential dilemmas of human existence.