National Counselor Exam (NCE)

According to Carl Rogers, __________ is love and support given to another with no strings attached.

1. Conditional regard

2. Unconditional positive regard

3. Empathetic understanding

4. Transactional support

The correct answer is: Unconditional positive regard

The concept of unconditional positive regard is central to Carl Rogers' humanistic approach to therapy and personal development. This term refers to the acceptance, love, and support that an individual receives from another without any conditions or expectations attached. It emphasizes a non-judgmental acknowledgment of a person's worth and the inherent value of their experiences, regardless of their actions or feelings. In therapeutic settings, providing unconditional positive regard fosters a safe and supportive environment where clients can express themselves freely, explore their thoughts and feelings, and ultimately grow and develop. This kind of acceptance encourages individuals to be true to themselves, as they feel valued for who they are, not just for what they do. Thus, unconditional positive regard is crucial for healthy relationships and personal growth, as it promotes self-acceptance and self-esteem. Conditions such as conditional regard, empathetic understanding, and transactional support involve varying degrees of expectations and conditions placed on the relationship or support, which do not align with the core idea of unconditional positive regard.