The theory of “Self-Actualization” given by psychologist Abraham Maslow contends that persons are motivated to fulfill their maximum potential in life. The theory is used in conjunction with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which states that self-actualization is at the top of the hierarchy, beating four “lower” needs. Although this theory is mostly associated with Abraham Maslow, it was originally introduced by Kurt Goldstein a physician specializing in psychiatry and neuroanatomy during the early part of the 20th century. Goldstein saw self-actualization as the end-all goal of every organism and referred to it as the desire for self-fulfillment, and the propensity of an individual to realize his/her potential. Theories of psychoanalysis and behaviorism were rife during the mid-20th century in the field of psychology. Although these two perspectives were poles apart from each other, a general assumption that people are driven by forces beyond their control was shared by the two theories. As a result of this assumption, a new perspective known as humanistic psychology arose, which gave a more optimistic, agentive perspective on human striving. The self-actualization theory is a product of the humanistic perspective. Maslow developed this theory by studying the psychology of healthy individuals.

Self- Actualization can be defined by Maslow as the ability to become the best version of oneself. As stated by him, “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.” Self-actualization manifests differently in different people, while some might do it artistically, others might do it through technology or mentoring, etc. Maslow was of the opinion that owing to the need to fulfill four lower needs namely: psychological; safety; love and belongingness; and esteem very few people are successful in becoming self-actualized or do so in a very limited capacity. Self-actualizers or those who attain self-actualization, have the ability to achieve peak experiences, moments of joy as well as transcendence. Also, they tend to be very creative autonomous, objective, concerned about humanity, and accepting of themselves as well as others. Maslow stated that some people are just not driven enough to self-actualize. They are too focussed on attaining their deficiency needs or D-needs which encompass the four lower needs in the hierarchy that focus on their being needs of B-needs. The D-needs are externally driven while the B-needs come from within the individual. In conclusion, Maslow believes that self-actualizers are motivated enough to pursue their B-needs over the D-needs that non-self-actualizers chase.

Maslow identified many individuals whom he believed to have attained a level of self-actualization. Among them are:

• Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865; American President)

• Albert Einstein (1879- 1955; Theoretical Physicist)

• Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962; Diplomat and Activist)

• Jane Addams (1860-1935; Settlement Activist, Sociologist, Public Administrator)

• Thomas Jefferson (1743- 1826; American President, Architect, Philosopher)

Despite the fact that this theory is quite popular as a concept associated with positive psychology and motivation, it cannot cease to draw criticism. Erin Berne, a Canadian psychiatrist stated that the self-actualization theory is like a game of self-expression based on the belief that good feelings are to be pursued. Psychologist Vitz, testified that Maslow has turned the self-actualization theory into a moral norm. Fritz Perls another psychologist noted that one’s focus can easily shift from striving to actualize one’s sense of self, to merely trying to build up a fake appearance of self-actualization which can be misleading. Maslow too was aware of the misunderstandings of this concept and doubted whether he had articulated the theory well. However, he did state that only an elite handful are truly able to achieve self-actualization.

References:

Perera, A. (September 4, 2020). Self-Actualization. SimplyPsychology. Retrieved from https://www.simplypsychology.org/self-actualization.html

Vinney, Cynthia. (December 6, 2021). Understanding Maslow's Theory of Self-Actualization. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/maslow-theory-self-actualization-4169662