Humanistic theories of personality development are primarily based on which assumption?

The correct choice is based on the core premise of humanistic theories, which posit that every individual has an inherent drive towards self-actualization and personal growth. Humanistic psychology, particularly championed by theorists like Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, emphasizes the uniqueness of each person and the belief that individuals strive to realize their fullest potential. This perspective shifts the focus from pathology and dysfunction to wellness and the positive aspects of human nature, making it a foundational assumption of humanistic approaches to personality development.

This view contrasts sharply with other theories, such as behavioral theories that focus on observable behavior and environmental reinforcements, or psychodynamic theories that emphasize unconscious processes and instinctual drives. Similarly, biological determinism posits that personality is largely shaped by genetic and physiological factors, which fails to account for the individual's active role in their own growth and the potential for change. Thus, the acknowledgment of a unique drive towards self-actualization is central to understanding humanistic theories of personality.