Actualization tendency is when someone’s sense of who they are

reply to at least two peers

1. Actualization tendency is when someone’s sense of who they are, is consistent with their self image. It influences the the practice of person-centered therapy by the client having an active role in the therapy sessions. The client works in improving what they hoped to improve in the treatment.
2. I am a client who suffers from acrophobia, meaning I am afraid of heights. Growing up, I was always afraid to jump off dive boards, and I never went on rollercoasters. In therapy, I would like my therapist to use in vivid (gradual exposure), which requires small steps in introducing my fear of heights. For example, maybe jumping off gradually high objects. I chose gradual exposure because I believe these steps are better versus facing head-on the fear that has brought me to therapy. Flooding would not be effective, since I was not able to conquer the fear of heights.