Conceptual Foundations of Self-Actualization

Abstract

Humanistic biologists, psychologists, and organismic theorists have made a persuasive case for the presence of an innate growth force within the personality for achieving self-actualization (S-A). Among the S-A theorists, however, little attention has been given to the way in which this organic force is mobilized to achieve direction and expression. A notable exception to this omission is found in the motivation theory of Abraham Maslow. He theorized that progressive gratification through his need hierarchy would lead individuals automatically to explore their higher needs for S-A. Later Maslow came to realize that this was not true; many did not move toward S-A even after all other needs in the hierarchy had been gratified. This discovery necessitates a rethinking of his theory. A crucial element in this theory is that S-A, the highest need in the hierarchy, is the weakest biologically. This characteristic, in addition to the many examples of experience, is essential in achieving our highest possibilities. Such concepts are liberating for they help free us from ego-centered developments and thereby add a significant dimension to our conceptual model for personal growth.

Maslow’s Unacknowledged Contributions to Developmental Psychology

“…Furthermore, others have (a) made pleas for a more dynamic interactional self as an alternative to Maslow’s proposition of an instinctoid self in his adaptation of Goldstein (Frick, 1982; Morley, 1995) and (b) accused Maslow of “[emphasizing] the importance of maintaining a unified, coherent self,” whereas “the self-concept differentiates with maturity, [incorporating] both the private and the more public sides of our nature, accommodating our ability to keep our own counsel and still be known to others by virtue of our interactions with them” (Broderick & Blewitt, 2015, pp. 169-170).…”

The phenomenology of happiness: Stephen Strasser’s eidetic explication.

“…It has subsequently and in diverse ways played an important role in theories of well-being found in various of third force (i.e., humanistic) psychologies. To be sure, concepts such as self-realization, self-actualization, and self-fulfillment can be traced back to Aristotle (Allport, 1955; Frick, 1982; Friedman, 1972; Strasser, 1977). Happiness as harmony has also made a controversial appearance within the ranks of positive psychology, wherein Aristotle is frequently referenced (Robbins, 2008; Woolfolk & Wasserman, 2005), and in ecopsychology, wherein mental health is seen as a kind of unfolding harmonization with the ecosystem.…”

How music changes our lives: A qualitative study of the long-term effects of intense musical experiences

“…Studies have revealed that they often lead to positive changes in individuals’ lives. According to Maslow (1962, 1964, 1968), peak experiences can have permanent after-effects and add meaning to life, permanently changing how we view our lives (see also Frick’s work on transcendental psychology, 1982; Usher, 1989; Warmoth, 1963; Wuthnow, 1978). Laniere, Privette, Vodanovich, and Bundrick (1996) also found that most participants in their study considered their peak experience an important milestone in their lives.…”