The Theory of Self actualization

Maslow’s Self-Actualization Theory

Self-actualization Theory was developed by Abraham Maslow to emphasize on an individual’s uniqueness and his/her potential for self-direction and improved functioning. This theory represents an individual’s journey of growth towards realization of the highest needs. Maslow introduced the Theory of Self-actualization based on the belief that people are motivated to look for ways of achieving personal goals in order to make their lives more meaningful and fulfilling. Therefore, Maslow’s Self-actualization Theory is considered as a motivational theory that comprises of a five-tier model of human needs that are known as the hierarchy of needs (Achilleos, 2017). The first level of needs is physiological/basic needs that must be satisfied including hunger, oxygen, sex, sleep, thirst, and removal of body waste. The second level is safety needs including self-protection while the third level is belongingness/love needs like acceptance and affiliation. The fourth level is self-esteem needs like achievement and recognition whereas the fifth level is self-actualization needs like personal growth.
In light of Maslow’s Self-actualization Theory, there are various characteristics of self-actualizing people. One of the core characteristics of self-actualizing people is creativeness as these individuals attempt to be original and inventive. For example, self-actualizing people can come up with a creative solution to an organization problem. Secondly, self-actualizing people are autonomous as they are relatively independent of their environment and culture. For instance, these people tend to ignore what other do or say as they pursue their own goals. The third core characteristic of self-actualizing people is greater acceptance of self and others. For example, self-actualizing people tend to treat others fairly and equally regardless of their religion, race or class (Carducci, 2009). The fourth characteristic is being true to themselves, for example, being deeply moved by a movie scene even after watching it several times.
References
Achilleos, C. (2017, March 8). Abraham Maslow’s Self-Actualization Theory. Retrieved October 4, 2017, from https://owlcation.com/social-sciences/Abraham-Maslow-Self-actualization-theory
Carducci, B.J. (2009). The psychology of personality: viewpoints, research, and applications (2nd ed.). Malden, MA: Wiley-Blackwell.