Comments (29)

By Little Mummy, November 16, 2009 12:06 am

I’m currently studying business studies with the Open University and have come across an interesting concept which I’m sure at least some of you are aware of that has piqued my interest. I have quite a strong interest in personal development (stop snickering at the back, yes I’m talking to you englishmum and Laura) and have read several books on the subject so I’m quite surprised that I haven’t come across this theory.

The theory I’m wittering on about (if anyone is left) is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

The theory goes that each level of the pyramid must be completed or ‘fulfilled’ before you ascend to the next level. The level above where you are on the pyramid is what motivates you.

I think we can take a parenting angle here, I think we are concerned with our children in the same way. Once we have cleaned and fed them and secured their safety we can turn our attention to socialising them and beyond that enrolling them in all sorts of clubs and activities to build self esteem, and if we can get past busying their schedules they may even have some time for some self-actualisation of their own!

Back on a personal level I think the pyramid is kind of a two way street, a bit like snakes and ladders. If a lower level on the pyramid is not fulfilled then you slide back down to fulfil that level before you can return your attention to the upper levels.

I think I’m probably at the highest point I’ve ever been, hovering between esteem and self-actualisation. Once you reach the dizzy heights of self-actualisation this is said to be more of an experience than a goal. The more you ‘self-actualise’ the more the desire is flamed, if that makes sense. Self-actualisation is the process of fulfilling ones potential, this doesn’t solely relate to work or money but comes more from within a sort of inner assurance that develops with age, experience and I guess the process of self-actualisation.

Characteristics of Self-Actualised People

* Realistic perception of self and external world

* Ability to focus on solving problems outwith their own being, this may involve charity work, volunteering etc..

* Focus on developing their individual potential

* May appear unconventional in their words and actions, they aren’t merely a sheep so their thinking may seem ‘out of the box’

As with many theories Maslow’s hierarchy of needs has proved controversial, criticism of Maslow’s work has focused on whether there is a hierarchial order to our needs at all.

Your thoughts… don’t be shy, throw them out there. Do you agree with the theory or disagree? Are you surprised by where you fit on the pyramid…do you think it can relate to parenting in any way?