Introduction
Self-actualization needs, as identified by psychologist Abraham Maslow, are the needs related to achieving peak human flourishing.
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Abraham Maslow conceived of self-actualization as an ideal psychological end state that a human being might reach after largely satisfying other, more fundamental needs. Maslow’s theory was that humans have a “hierarchy of needs” that existential urgency drives them to address in a particular order. At the bottom of the hierarchy are physiological needs, such as need for air, water, food, and a functional body temperature (Maslow 1954/1970, pp. 35–38). Next are safety needs, like security, protection from physical and psychological harm, and a sense of law and order having the edge over chaos (pp. 39–43). Next are belongingness and love needs, such as with a romantic partner, with friends and family, and with broader circles like social groups, religions, and nations (pp. 43–45). Next are esteem needs, consisting of first the...
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Hansen, I.G. (2017). Self-Actualization Needs. In: Zeigler-Hill, V., Shackelford, T. (eds) Encyclopedia of Personality and Individual Differences. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-28099-8_1500-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-28099-8_1500-1
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