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Rogerian Theory

Abstract

Carl Rogers contributed a great deal to not just psychology, but psychotherapy. He was raised in a relatively normal American family around the turn of the century. His later studies, subsequent clinical experience, and research lead him to the conclusion that all living beings strive for biological success. Humans also strive for this success but are often thwarted by society, giving rise to a real self and an ideal self. Disparages between these two selves gives rise to neurosis and psychosis. Rogerian therapy attempts to lead clients to self actualization, realizing what one’s real self desires, with passive and indirect assistance.

Personality Synopsis, Carl Rogers

Introduction

The purpose of this article is to give a brief biography of Carl Rogers, an overview of his most influential theories, and the lasting impact of the man and his theories on clinical psychology. Rogers’ most influential theory was his person-centered approach to therapy. This approached has expanded to include such topics as leadership, education, and group work in general.
Attachment 1 is my supplemental bibliography, listing multiple sources that I have attained information from during the courses of Psychology of Personality and Psychology of Adjustment, spring of 2008.
Brief Biography

Born to an American family January 8, 1902, Carl Rogers was the typical boy of a typical American family of that time. In a suburb of Chicago, called Oak Park, the young Rogers was the son of a civil engineer in a religious Christian family. Later, the family would move to a farm where Rogers would endure the heavy load of chores and strict discipline that is needed for that way of life (Boeree, 2006).
Rogers would later choose to attend Wisconsin University to study Agriculture, and soon switching studies to religion. However, as most college students do, Rogers began to loose faith in the particulars of his religious upbringing, and eventually settled on...