Definition: Unconditional positive regard is an important part of the non-directive, client-centered therapy created by humanist psychologist Carl Rogers. According to Rogers, unconditional positive regard involves showing complete support and acceptance of a person no matter what that person says or does.
Image courtesy Piotr Bizior
"This is an attitude of grace, an attitude that values us even knowing our ailings," explains David G. Meyers in his book Psychology: Eighth Edition in Modules. "It is a profound relief to drop our pretenses, confess our worst feelings, and discover that we are still accepted. In a good marriage, a close family, or an intimate friendship, we are free to be spontaneous without fearing the loss of others' esteem." Learn more about unconditional positive regard.
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I love the newsletter and all the information that it provides.
I have a B.A. in Psychology with some Masters work in Social Work. I am now retired; however, I do volunteering in the
areas of Psychology and Social Work. I could never withdraw
from the field permanently. Thanks again for the valuable
information. Julie
Hi Kendra! Thanks for this definition. I could not agree more, about the importance of having this competency of unconditional positive regard. I work with helping leaders, managers and supervisors develop this so they can better serve their teams. Do you have exercises or resources that you use to help people develop unconditional positive regard?