Which term refers to the belief in individuals' ability to achieve personal growth?

The term that best refers to the belief in individuals' ability to achieve personal growth is self-actualization. This concept is rooted in humanistic psychology and was explored extensively by Abraham Maslow, who described self-actualization as the process of realizing one's potential and capabilities. It emphasizes the importance of personal development, creativity, and the pursuit of meaningful goals in life.

Self-actualization encompasses the idea that individuals can grow and fulfill their inherent potential, which aligns closely with the principles of person-centered therapy by supporting the notion that individuals are driven toward personal growth and self-improvement.

While the other terms—self-empowerment, self-awareness, and self-determination—all relate to aspects of personal growth and agency, they do not encapsulate the complete notion of achieving one's fullest potential in the same comprehensive way that self-actualization does.