According to Carl Rogers, what motivates individuals towards positive growth?

Carl Rogers posits that individuals are driven by an innate "self-actualizing tendency," which is a fundamental component of his humanistic approach to psychology. This concept suggests that every person has an inherent desire to grow, develop, and realize their full potential. According to Rogers, this self-actualizing tendency motivates individuals to strive for personal fulfillment and self-improvement.

Rogers believed that, in a supportive and accepting environment, individuals will naturally move towards positive growth and self-discovery. This idea highlights the importance of creating a nurturing and empathetic therapeutic relationship, where clients feel understood and valued. The self-actualizing tendency is not reliant on external factors, such as validation from others or comparisons with peers; instead, it is an internal drive to become the best version of oneself.

By focusing on this innate motivation, Rogers emphasized the power of personal agency in the therapeutic process, allowing individuals to explore their feelings and experiences in a non-judgmental space, leading to meaningful self-growth and development.