The Reluctant Alliance

Humanistic psychology and behaviour analysis have long been viewed as staunch opponents in the practice of psychology. Newman’s careful research into the theories, positions, and approaches of both camps dispels the myths of behaviourists as cold manipulators and of humanistic psychologists as weak-willed armchair philosophers . After examining both systems, he outlines their shared philosophical and historical roots. Newman explores such questions as: How should psychotherapy be conducted? How is moral behaviour created and maintained? Is behaviourism unethical? and What forms of education are most effective at imparting information and improving self-concepts?