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Abraham Maslow

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56 views3 pages

Abraham Maslow

Summary

Uploaded by

ARENTO, REA JENE P.
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
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ABRAHAM MASLOW

Abraham Maslow's theory of self-actualization contends that individuals are motivated to fulfill their
potential in life. Self-actualization is typically discussed in conjunction with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs,
which posits that self-actualization sits at the top of a hierarchy above four "lower" needs.

Maslow included caveats in order to explain why certain individuals might pursue higher needs before
lower ones. For example, some people who are especially driven by the desire to express themselves
creatively may pursue self-actualization even if their lower needs are unmet. Similarly, individuals who
are particularly dedicated to pursuing higher ideals may achieve self-actualization despite adversity that
prevents them from meeting their lower needs.

Defining Self-Actualization

To Maslow, self-actualization is the ability to become the best version of oneself. Maslow stated, “This
tendency might be phrased as the desire to become more and more what one is, to become everything
that one is capable of becoming.”

Of course, we all hold different values, desires, and capacities. As a result, self-actualization will manifest
itself differently in different people. One person may self-actualize through artistic expression, while
another will do so by becoming a parent, and yet another by inventing new technologies.

Maslow believed that, because of the difficulty of fulfilling the four lower needs, very few people would
successfully become self-actualized, or would only do so in a limited capacity. He proposed that the
people who can successfully self actualize share certain characteristics. He called these people self-
actualizers. According to Maslow, self-actualizers share the ability to achieve peak experiences, or
moments of joy and transcendence. While anyone can have a peak experience, self-actualizers have
them more frequently. In addition, Maslow suggested that self-actualizers tend to be highly creative,
autonomous, objective, concerned about humanity, and accepting of themselves and others.

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a motivational theory in psychology comprising a five-tier model of


human needs, often depicted as hierarchical levels within a pyramid. From the bottom of the hierarchy
upwards, the needs are: physiological (food and clothing), safety (job security), love and belonging
needs (friendship), esteem, and self-actualization.

For example, the longer a person goes without food, the more hungry they will become. ... Growth
needs do not stem from a lack of something, but rather from a desire to grow as a person. Once these
growth needs have been reasonably satisfied, one may be able to reach the highest level called self-
actualization.

For example, if a person is lost in the woods, they are likely looking to fulfill their physiological needs.
They may be hungry, thirsty, lacking shelter, or cold. This individual would probably not be concerned
with their financial security or their need to belong in a group.
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a significant theory in psychology, which was postulated by the noted
American psychologist Abraham Maslow in his 1943 paper, “A Theory of Human Motivation.” Even after
receiving criticism for being western in nature, the theory is still relevant and a significant part of
management studies. On top of the five tiers of these needs lies the “Self-actualization Needs.”

Self-actualization Needs

Index of Article (Click to Jump)

Overview

Characteristics of Self-actualization

Definition

Significance

Examples of Self-actualization Needs

1. Famous Personalities

2. Growth and Development of Employees

3. Artists and Creative People

4. Exhibitions of Art

5. Social Workers

Overview

“Self-actualization” is the highest or fifth level of the five-stage model. According to this model, Self-
actualization needs are considered as the highest-order motivation needs and by which one can realize
his/her real potential and can achieve the “ideal self.” Self-growth, i.e., both personal and creative,
comes under Self-actualization and which can be achieved by realizing full potential. The full potential
can be realized by having a great sense of completeness or fulfillment and through achieving sound
mental health. So, Self-actualization needs include the realization of full potential, looking for personal
growth, creativity, peak experiences, and fulfillment of self.

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