Analysis of My Characteristics on The Path to Self-actualization

Introduction to Maslow's Theory

Maslow established this theory in 1954 by publishing Motivation and Personality. This was a revolutionary theory at that time, as behavioral and psychoanalysis theories dominated the period. Behaviorism perceived man as an empty organism constantly under the influence of external factors, focusing only on reactions and responses to these factors. Psychoanalysis viewed a man as a being influenced by innate instincts and the conflicts of unconscious processes (Maslow, 1954).

The Humanistic Approach

The humanistic approach rejects behavioral learning, which perceives man as a machine that can be programmed and neglects specific human characteristics such as values, goals, aspirations, love, jealousy, shame, creativity, etc. This approach also rejects psychoanalytic learning, which suggests that human nature is inherently bad and based on innate instincts, not differing from animals. Humanists view human nature as unique, special, and authentic, aspiring to the self-actualization of one's own potentials and possibilities (Rogers, 1961).

The Path to Self-Actualization

The path to self-actualization involves satisfying certain motives, which is the basic theoretical setting and foundation of Maslow's theory. According to him, each individual has motives and needs they wish to achieve in life. Fulfilling these needs acts as a reward, making life worthwhile and meaningful. These goals are individual and innate, with a certain regularity and order, i.e., hierarchy (Maslow, 1954).

Analysis of My Characteristics on the Path to Self-Actualization

Reflecting on some of my characteristics, I can identify where they might originate according to this theory. The first characteristics that come to mind regarding these hierarchies are emotional stability, well-being, and trust. In the first hierarchy, we find physiological needs, which include our needs for food, water, oxygen, etc. All of my physiological needs are met regularly, enabling me to develop a sense of well-being. The second hierarchy is feeling a sense of security. This security was provided to me by various sources such as parents, school, and society. My parents gave me a safe shelter. The school provides a predictable structure in my life, and the society I live in is generally safe and secure. Having a constant sense of security enables me to develop higher trust. Not being exposed to violence or theft gives me higher trust in people (Gleitman, 1995).

The Role of Love and Belonging

Advancing to the third hierarchy, the sense of love and belonging is crucial. Humans are social creatures that require this hierarchy to be fulfilled. This hierarchy is mainly fulfilled by my family. The family was the first to give me a strong sense of belonging, which in turn helped me achieve relationships with other people (Rogers, 1961).

Self-Esteem and Emotional Stability

The fourth hierarchy is self-esteem. The need for self-esteem can be divided into two groups: the need for self-respect and the need for respect from others. Because I feel respected by others and confident in myself, I was able to develop emotional stability. Of course, I couldn't reach emotional stability without fulfilling previous needs in the hierarchy (Maslow, 1954).

Self-Actualization

The fifth and final hierarchy is self-actualization. In this hierarchy, I have all my basic needs fulfilled. When all the previous hierarchies are fulfilled, I can finally use all my potential and capacity to achieve my best possible self. In this stage, I can work on bettering my characteristics such as compassion, intellect, and honesty. These are characteristics I would like to improve, and I am aware that they can be enhanced. It's essential to continuously work on oneself to reach the fullest potential, as self-actualization is not a final destination but an ongoing journey (Gleitman, 1995).

References

Gleitman, H. (1995). Psychology. Norton & Company.

Maslow, A. H. (1954). Motivation and Personality. Harper & Row.

Rogers, C. R. (1961). On Becoming a Person: A Therapist's View of Psychotherapy. Houghton Mifflin.