Abraham Maslow's contributions to psychology include the development of humanistic psychology and the Hierarchy of Needs theory. His work emphasized human potential, self-actualization, and the importance of personal growth. Maslow, alongside Carl Rogers, shaped the humanistic approach, influencing areas like positive psychology, education, and management.
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Maslow grew up in a large family with academic pressure and social isolation, which influenced his later work in psychology
Initial Studies in Law
Maslow studied law to please his parents, but later found his true passion in psychology
Influences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison
Maslow's studies at this university, particularly under the guidance of Harry Harlow, shaped his humanistic approach to psychology
Maslow's observations of human behavior and experiences during his academic journey laid the foundation for his humanistic perspective
Maslow and other psychologists developed this third force in psychology as a response to the limitations of behaviorism and psychoanalysis
Emphasis on Individual Agency and Free Will
Humanistic psychology focuses on the belief that individuals have the power to make choices and improve themselves
Importance of Subjective Experience and Personal Fulfillment
This approach highlights the significance of personal experiences and the pursuit of meaning and fulfillment in life
The atrocities of the war motivated Maslow to study the best qualities of mankind, leading to his theories on self-actualization and the hierarchy of needs
Maslow's motivational theory consists of five levels of human needs, with self-actualization as the ultimate goal
Physiological Needs
These are the basic needs for survival, such as food and water
Safety Needs
These needs involve seeking security and stability in one's life
Love and Belonging Needs
These needs include the desire for friendships and intimate relationships
Esteem Needs
These needs involve achieving recognition and respect from others
Self-Actualization Needs
This level involves realizing one's full potential and personal growth
Maslow later added this level to the hierarchy, which involves connecting to something beyond the self and helping others reach their potential
Self-actualization is the process of fulfilling one's talents and potential, considered the ultimate goal of personal development
Sense of Ethics
Self-actualized individuals possess a strong moral code and sense of right and wrong
Creativity
These individuals are often creative and express themselves in unique ways
Spontaneity
Self-actualized individuals are comfortable being spontaneous and living in the moment
Peak Experiences
These individuals have moments of intense joy and fulfillment, known as peak experiences
Maslow studied historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Albert Einstein to identify common characteristics of self-actualized individuals
Maslow's work has had a lasting impact on the fields of motivation and personality, and his humanistic approach paved the way for positive psychology
Establishment of Journals
Maslow played a role in establishing journals focused on humanistic and transpersonal psychology
Presidency of the American Psychological Association
Maslow's influence on the discipline was recognized when he served as president of the APA in 1968
Maslow's ideas continue to be applied in various fields, including education, management, and psychotherapy, highlighting the importance of personal growth and fulfillment in human life
Maslow and Rogers both believed in the inherent goodness of people and the human drive towards growth and self-fulfillment
Theoretical Contributions
Maslow's work focused on needs and self-actualization, while Rogers applied these principles practically in his client-centered therapy
Therapeutic Approach
Rogers' client-centered therapy emphasizes empathy, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard towards the client, creating a supportive environment for personal growth
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Maslow's initial college major and parental expectations
Studied law at CCNY to please parents; later pursued psychology.
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University where Maslow discovered his passion for psychology
University of Wisconsin-Madison; influenced by psychologist Harry Harlow.
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Maslow's academic achievements in psychology
Earned BA, MA, and PhD in psychology by 1934; developed humanistic psychology approach.
