Which concept typically results from receiving positive regard?

Receiving positive regard typically leads to self-acceptance. In person-centered therapy, which emphasizes the importance of acceptance and understanding from others, positive regard fosters a sense of worthiness and self-value. When individuals experience unconditional positive regard, they are more likely to develop a positive self-image and accept their feelings and experiences without harsh self-judgment. This acceptance is foundational in helping them grow and change positively.

While self-regard could be seen as related to the process, it is more directed toward self-affirmation rather than the broader concept of accepting oneself as a whole. External validation refers to seeking approval and acknowledgment from others, which can sometimes conflict with true self-acceptance if not coupled with intrinsic validation. Empathy, though crucial in the therapeutic process, does not directly result from receiving positive regard but rather acts as a facilitator of the therapeutic relationship. The strongest outcome of receiving positive regard is indeed self-acceptance, as it nurtures a person’s understanding and compassion toward themselves.