Carl Roger’s and Self-Acceptance: “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”

Focus: Person-centered therapy and unconditional positive regard

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Explanation:
Carl Rogers, a pioneer of humanistic psychology, proposed that self-acceptance is a prerequisite for personal growth. His client-centered approach emphasized unconditional positive regard, empathy, and congruence. According to Rogers, meaningful change happens not through judgment or pressure, but through acceptance and support in a safe therapeutic relationship.

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Example in Practice:
Counselors practicing person-centered therapy provide a nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe exploring their identity, emotions, and experiences—often resulting in transformative self-growth.

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Citation:
Rogers, C. R. (1961). On becoming a person: A therapist’s view of psychotherapy. Houghton Mifflin.
Farber, B. A., & Doolin, E. M. (2011). Positive regard and psychotherapy outcome: A meta-analytic review. Psychotherapy, 48(1), 58–64. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0022189

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