Question 1
Survival is a basic human instinct, so much so, that in the face of danger and life threatening situations, our minds naturally turns on our fight or flight mechanism to help in survival. It is necessary to note that survival can be threatened in many ways, research shows that even during an argument or a scolding the same areas of the brain are stimulated as those that are aroused in a physical fight or if one encountered a wild animal. According to Marlow, one could not move on to the upper part of the pyramid if they didn’t have the necessary needs in the levels below. Physiological needs such as food, shelter, and clothing are at the very bottom. In the occurrence of a disaster, it is irrational to think about one’s self-actualization, if they don’t have food or even clothing. Beyond that is security and safety; again if you felt threatened and your life was at risk you do not have time to think about love and belonging or even esteem (Joomis, 2007). Psychologists operating in the face of disaster or performing social work must understand the procedure to follow in order to get functional people.
Question 2
Venturing into psychology means understanding principles that govern human functionality and thinking. Humanistic psychology would definitely come in handy in understanding and providing a framework for understanding human beings; what frustrates them, what stands in their way of self-actualization, and what inhibits their proper functionality by presenting maladaptive thought patterns and mannerisms. This would help me in properly diagnosing issues affecting humanity, and knowing the process to follow in solving these issues, with regard to hierarchy of needs.
Question 3
The strengths that would help me work in such an area is my ability to empathize with others. This is a quality trait especially because it allows me to survey a situation from the point of view of another individual and it enhances a humanistic aspect in psychological and social work done in disaster scenarios. Empathy is a big part of counseling and is a technique one needs to possess so that the people being helped feel understood (Clark, 2010). One thing I might have a challenge with however is probably too much sympathy, which might make the people I’m trying to help feel as though their situations are too intense or even hopeless.
References
Clark, A. J. (2010). Empathy: An integral model in the counseling process. Journal of Counseling and Development: JCD, 88(3), 348–356. http://doi.org/10.1002/j.1556-6678.2010.tb00032.x
Joomis, D. M. and K. (2007). Maslow ’ s Hierarchy of Needs. European Journal of Social Science, 16(13), 2001. http://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-88415-752-6.50250-2
