Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 23, 2026

Task Interruption and Resumption Paradigm for Testing the Activation and Pursuit of an Abstract Thinking Goal
Published on: April 18, 2017
Individual Perceptions of Self-Actualization: What Functional Motives Are Linked to Fulfilling One's Full Potential?
Jaimie Arona Krems1, Douglas T Kenrick1, Rebecca Neel2
11 Arizona State University, Tempe, USA.
Abstract:
Maslow's self-actualization remains a popular notion in academic research as well as popular culture. The notion that life's highest calling is fulfilling one's own unique potential has been widely appealing. But what do people believe they are doing when they pursue the realization of their full, unique potentials? Here, we examine lay perceptions of self-actualization. Self-actualizing, like any drive, is unlikely to operate without regard to biological and social costs and benefits. We examine which functional outcomes (e.g., gaining status, making friends, finding mates, caring for kin) people perceive as central to their individual self-actualizing. Three studies suggest that people most frequently link self-actualization to seeking status, and, concordant with life history theory, what people regard as self-actualizing varies in predictable ways across the life span and across individuals. Contrasting with self-actualization, people do not view other types of well-being-eudaimonic, hedonic, subjective-as furthering status-linked functional outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Maslow's Theory of Basic Human Needs
Physiological needs such as hunger, thirst, sex, physical comfort, and survival are at the bottom of the pyramid. These are the components that are necessary to sustain life. Once the first level of needs has been met, the second level arises.
Safety needs include stability and predictability. Protection and freedom from danger are all a part...
Maslow's Humanistic Approach on Personality
Ryan and Deci's Self-Determination Theory
Autonomy is the need to feel in control of one's actions and decisions. For example, a student who chooses their research topic is likely to be more engaged and motivated than one who...
Secondary Motives: Power Motivation and Achievement Motivation
Power motivation is characterized by the desire to influence, control, or have an impact on others. It is shaped by an individual's experiences, social environment, and cultural context. People with high power motivation are...
Humanistic Psychology
This approach...
Self-Discrepancy Theory

