He contended that each human being, plant and animal has an inborn goal to actualize itself as it is. Goldstein (1939, 1940) viewed self-actualization as the ultimate goal of every organism, and refers to man's' desire for self-fulfillment, and the propensity of an individual to become Generally, the state of self-actualization is viewed as obtainable only after one’s fundamental needs for survival, safety, love and self-esteem are met (Maslow, 1943, 1954).Įven though the term “self-actualization” is most 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.
The attainment of self-actualization involves one’s full involvement in life and the realization of that which one is capable of accomplishing. Self-actualization (also referred to as self-realization or self-cultivation) can be described as the complete realization of one’s potential as manifest in peak experiences which involve the full development of one’s abilities and appreciation for life (Maslow, 1962). Characteristics of Self-Actualized Individuals.While self-actualizers hail from a variety of backgrounds and a diversity of occupations, they share notable characteristics in common, such as the ability to cultivate deep and loving relationships with others.Self-actualized people have an acceptance of who they are despite their faults and limitations, and experience to drive to be creative in all aspects of their lives.According to Maslow, the internal drive to self-actualize would seldom emerge until more basic needs are met.The present day understanding of self-actualization, tends to be more aligned with the view of Maslow than with the perspectives of Goldstein or Rogers.Kurt Goldstein, Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow are three individuals who have contributed immensely to our understanding of the concept of self-actualization.This concept is at the top of the Maslow hierarchy of needs, so not every human being reaches it. Self-actualization is the complete realization of one’s potential, and the full development of one’s abilities and appreciation for life.