Positive regard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Positive regard" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in psychological contexts to refer to the acceptance and support of a person regardless of what they say or do. Example: "In therapy, the concept of positive regard is essential for creating a safe and trusting environment for clients."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Positive regard (0.69) and stimulation (0.77) contributed the most to this factor.

International Journal of Child Care and Education Policy

Positive regard is when you are happy to make your partner happy, when it is your pleasure to make your partner's life a bit easier.

HuffPost

What happened to Unconditional Positive Regard!

The New Yorker

The profession is unique in that it encourages unconditional positive regard.

The Guardian

His sensitive portraits convey the mutual trust and positive regard that he established with his collaborators.

Yale University

Respect in the workplace includes a positive regard for each other as individuals and for the work each does.

University of California, Berkeley

This provided measures of worker regard, empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness, as well as a total score.

Columbia University

Counselling is about nurturing a person within an empathic relationship of positive regard towards a better sense of self and place in the world.

The Guardian

Market research ranks it up there with Coca-Cola, Disney and American Express for almost universal consumer recognition and positive regard.

The New York Times

And his positive regard for visiting activists and researchers comforted and energized not just him but everyone around him, especially his successors at G.C.M.H.P., Abu Jamei among them.

The New Yorker

In general, a caring orientation includes displaying positive regard, appreciation, and respect for group members through behaviors such as support, validation, and compassion.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Positive regard" to foster trust and open communication, especially in therapeutic, educational, or professional settings. Demonstrating genuine appreciation can significantly enhance relationships and create a supportive environment.

Common error

Avoid automatically applying "Positive regard" in situations where critical feedback or constructive criticism is necessary for growth or improvement. Blindly offering praise without addressing shortcomings can hinder progress and erode credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Positive regard" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It's often used to describe an attitude or feeling of respect, acceptance, and appreciation towards someone or something. As Ludwig AI shows, it appears frequently in discussions about interpersonal relationships and psychological well-being.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

32%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Positive regard" is a noun phrase denoting acceptance, respect, and appreciation, commonly used in psychology, interpersonal relationships, and professional contexts. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It's essential for fostering trust and open communication but should be applied judiciously, avoiding its overuse where constructive criticism is more appropriate. Related phrases include "unconditional acceptance" and empathy. Understanding its nuanced application can significantly enhance communication and relationship-building skills.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Accepting attitude

This emphasizes the aspect of acceptance and tolerance, suitable when the context focuses on non-judgmental understanding.

Respectful attitude

Emphasizes the respectful component, suitable when the context focuses on showing deference or esteem.

Esteem

Implies a high level of respect and admiration, carrying a slightly more formal tone than "Positive regard".

Favorable opinion

This alternative highlights the aspect of having a good opinion or view of someone or something, focusing on judgment rather than direct interaction.

Good opinion

Focuses on the positive assessment or judgment held about someone or something, emphasizing intellectual agreement or approval.

Admiration

Highlights a feeling of respect and approval, focusing on appreciating specific qualities or achievements.

Affectionate attitude

This emphasizes a warm, caring disposition, focusing on emotional warmth rather than professional respect.

Approval

Focuses on formally agreeing with or supporting something, often used in contexts of decision-making or endorsement.

Warm reception

Focuses on the manner in which someone or something is received, highlighting the welcoming or friendly aspect.

Kind disposition

This highlights a gentle and benevolent nature, focusing on inherent kindness rather than outward expression of approval.

FAQs

How is "positive regard" used in psychology?

In psychology, particularly within humanistic approaches, "positive regard" refers to the unconditional acceptance and support of a person regardless of what they say or do. Carl Rogers emphasized its importance in fostering personal growth and self-acceptance.

What is unconditional "positive regard"?

Unconditional "positive regard" means accepting and supporting someone completely and without judgment. It involves offering warmth, empathy, and understanding, even when you don't necessarily agree with their actions or beliefs.

What are some similar concepts to "positive regard"?

Similar concepts include "unconditional acceptance", empathy, respect, and appreciation. These terms all involve showing understanding and support for others.

When is it appropriate to use "positive regard" in the workplace?

It's appropriate to use "positive regard" in the workplace to foster a supportive and inclusive environment, build strong relationships with colleagues, and encourage open communication. It can also improve morale and productivity.