Page "Humanistic psychology" Paragraph 32

The ideal self and real self involve understanding the issues that arise from having an idea of what you wish you were as a person, and having that not match who you actually are as a person ( incongruence ).

The ideal self is what a person believes should be done, as well as what their core values are.

The real self is what is actually played out in life.

Through humanistic therapy, an understanding of the present allows children to add positive experiences into their real self concept and continued their good behavior.

The goal is to have the two selves become congruent.

Rogers believed that when a therapist was able to be congruent, a real relationship occurs in therapy.

It is much easier to trust someone who is willing to share feelings openly, even if it may not be what the client always wants to hear and that allows the therapist to foster a strong relationship.