Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 9: Problem 4

Rogers argues that creative individuals trust their inner experience in spite of public criticism. "It was as though [El Greco] could say, 'good artists do not paint like this, but I paint like this. How can one distinguish between healthy self-confidence and an unhealthy, stubborn refusal to accept justified criticism?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Healthy self-confidence is characterized by trust in one's abilities but also an openness to learn from valid criticism for personal growth and development. Conversely, stubborn refusal to accept criticism leads to stagnation as it is characterized by arrogance and a lack of growth. Therefore, the response to criticism is key in distinguishing between the two.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the quote

Initially, the quote by Rogers should be analyzed. It speaks about an artist who disregards popular criticism and continues to trust his unique style. This trust in one's abilities in the face of criticism can be seen as a form of self-confidence.
02

Defining Healthy Self-Confidence

Healthy self-confidence can be understood as a positive belief in oneself and one's abilities. It means acknowledging personal talents, capabilities, and maintaining a positive self-image. It should also involve receptivity to valid criticism that could enhance one's skills or rectify any shortcomings. Valuable criticism should not be seen as a direct attack on one's abilities but should be treated as a means for improvement.
03

Defining Unhealthy Stubbornness

Unhealthy stubbornness in the context of refusal to accept criticism is when an individual disregards any criticism, whether justified or not, and refuses to make improvements. This could also lead to stagnation in terms of personal skill development. It is an attitude driven by pride and may harm one's ability to grow or adapt.
04

Distinguishing Between The Two

To distinguish between healthy self-confidence and stubbornness, the attitude towards criticism should be considered. A confident person would appreciate constructive criticism, learn from it, and use it as a stepping stone towards improvement. On the other hand, a stubborn person would dismiss any criticism out of hand, refusing to consider its merits, leading to a lack of growth or improvement.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

According to Rogers, "The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination" (a) Do you agree or disagree? Why? (b) How does our society try to persuade us that this statement is untrue?

According to Rogers, genuineness, empathy, and unconditional positive regard are essential to any successful human relationship. How would you evaluate each of the following on these characteristics? (a) Your best friend. (b) Freud, during a therapy session.

Rogers argues that we are motivated to develop our innate healthy tendencies. "The child will actualize himself [as by learning to walk], in spite of the painful experiences in so doing." Do you agree or disagree? Why?

What is the difference between criticizing a child's undesirable behaviors (which Rogers considers acceptable), and using conditional positive regard (which is harmful)? Illustrate with an example.

Rogers believes that "[Even] a positive evaluation is as threatening in the long run as a negative one, since to inform someone that he is good implies that you also have the right to tell him he is bad." Do you agree or disagree? Why?
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Psychology Textbooks

Schizophrenia

Read Explanation

Famous Psychologists

Read Explanation

Relationships

Read Explanation

Scientific Foundations of Psychology

Read Explanation

Biopsychology

Read Explanation

Emotion and Motivation

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free