What is Unconditional Positive Regard in Psychology?

We all have two instinctual urges and desires that make UPR an effective tool:

• The drive towards socially constructive behavior, meaning interacting effectively and positively with others.
• The need for self-determination, or the right and responsibility to choose one's own path.

In counselling, displaying unconditional acceptance means focusing on the client's feelings and motivations instead of judging their actions as right or wrong. This approach allows for the client to openly express themselves without fear of judgement or rejection.

For example, if a client shares thoughts or behaviors that may be considered unacceptable, the therapist can display unconditional positive regard by asking about their underlying emotions and motivations, rather than focusing on the moral or legal consequences of their actions.

Therapists must display UPR when a client shares self-destructive habits, such as substance abuse or self-harm. Instead of blaming or ignoring the harm, therapists should guide clients to recognize the behavior's negative impact and assure them of their worthiness for love and a healthy life.

• Display UPR when a client shares self-destructive habits
• Avoid blaming and guide clients to recognize the behavior's negative impact
• Assure clients they are worthy and deserving of a healthy life

Instead of always focusing on yourself, try repeating these sayings to shift your mindset:

- 🙏 My child's worth is unchangeable and does not require them to earn it.

- 🤲 While I may not agree with all my child's choices, I still accept and support them.

- 🌱 I give my child permission to make mistakes, knowing they have the ability to learn and grow.

- 💪 I have faith in my child's potential to become who they are meant to be.

- 🤗 My role is to guide and support, not to criticize.

As young people grow up, it is important to support their self-esteem and self-worth. Here are some tips for teachers and parents to implement Unconditional Positive Regard (UPR) and foster healthy development in children:

• Give honest praise and recognition for their successes and achievements.
• Be specific with your praise to reinforce good decisions and actions.
• Show respect by offering them choices, respecting their decisions, and explaining your own decisions.
• Encourage independence and provide diverse opportunities for them to showcase their skills and succeed.