Self-concept is fundamental to self-actualization. Actually, self- actualization begins with self-concept and develops into other facets of the
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person's total self. In this sense, self-actualization is a broader, more encompassing term. Mouly (1973, p. 34) describes self-actualization as follows: "The humanist sees the human person, not as the defenseless victim of stimuli, but rather as a purposeful being geared to such concepts as self-determination, self-fulfillment, and self-actualization. The role of education, for example, is to foster individuality by helping each child actualize his potentialities to the fullest, not to turn out identical, interchangeable 'pieces' on an assembly-line basis." The first step in the self-actualization process is to answer the question, "Who am I?". The second step is to answer the questions, "What can I do?" and "What would I like to do?". The individual is responsible for finding her own answers to these questions.
Existentialism has provided the general philosophical orientation from which self-actualization has developed. Specific emphases in this orientation, however, have been passed down through related disciplines encompassing personality and learning. The concept of the wholeness and uniqueness of each individual has been promoted by the organismic view of personality. The stress on the importance of the individual's input in using his capacities to cope with his situation has been the principal tenet of theories proposed by Gestalt psychologists and the phenomenologists. The concept of anticipatory activity, i.e., the principle of becoming, has been supported in the work of Adler, jung, and Rank. The trend away from concentration on biological factors and toward the socioeconomic environment has been fostered by the fields of cultural anthropology and sociology (Cofer & Appley, 1964).
What are the characteristics of self-actualizing persons? First, they have learned to accept themselves and to live with themselves. They have no need to follow the lead of others or to reject their own basic values in order to be an "in" member of some group. Second, they have developed a guiding moral and social system which permits them to live relatively free from conflict and feelings of guilt. Third, they have reached a level of emotional control at which they have an effective behavior pattern and at which they can pursue worthwhile and meaningful goals. Fourth, they have determined exactly what their abilities are and have developed an acceptable degree of competence in these areas. Fifth, they have chosen a life style appropriate to their capabilities, personality, and situation. Sixth, they have accepted a process of continuous growth in life. Seventh, they have achieved a level of social sensitivity at which they can integrate personal needs and goals with those of the group and at which they can relate meaningfully and effectively with others. Eighth, they have progressed to a point of being able to derive satisfaction from altruistic endeavors while maintaining their own self- interests. Ninth, they have formulated a positive outlook on life, and have learned to laugh at life in general and at themselves in particular (Mouly, 1973).