A few weeks ago, we published a research dose on Scott Barry Kaufman’s wonderful work in mapping Maslow’s life’s works to the latest theory and research on well-being and personality. Here, we offer a Research Mini Dose in PowerPoint format that you can download and share with clients and others you support.

1. Maslow & Self-actualization
21st century update
Research Mini

2. Scott Barry Kaufman
2018 self-actualization study

3. Let’s Look AtThe Study

4. STUDY CONCLUSIONS
 Kaufman’s study connected Maslow’s theory of human motivation to contemporary theory and research on
personality and well-being.
 A new 30-item “10 Characteristics of Self-Actualization Scale” was developed and validated – acceptance,
appreciation, equanimity, clarity, authenticity, moral, humanistic, purpose, peak experiences, creative spirit
 Those reporting more characteristics of self-actualization were more motivated by growth, exploration,
and love of humanity than the fulfillment of deficiencies in basic needs.
 The 10 characteristics of self-actualization were associated with greater well-being, including life
satisfaction, self-acceptance, positive relations, environmental mastery, growth, autonomy, purpose in life,
and self-transcendent experiences.
 Self-actualization scores predicted job performance, job satisfaction, and creativity.

5. Every human being has two sets of forces within.
One set clings to safety and defensiveness out of fear, tending to
regress backward, hanging on to the past . . . afraid to take chances,
afraid to jeopardize what [one] already has, afraid of
independence, freedom and separateness.
The other set of forces impels [one] forward toward wholeness of Self
and uniqueness of Self, toward full functioning of all [one’s] capacities,
toward confidence in the face of the external world at the same time
that [one] can accept [one’s] deepest, real, unconscious Self . . .
This basic dilemma or conflict between the defensive forces and the
growth trends I conceive to be existential, imbedded in the deepest
nature of the human being, now and forever into the future.
—Abraham Maslow (1962/1998)

6. Two Personality Meta-Traits
stability
 Stability supports self-actualization, instability
disrupts self-actualization
 Protection from disruption by impulses
 Instability
 Disruptive impulses – out of control, self-destructive
 Nonconstructive thinking – dark outlook, doubt
 Lack of authenticity and meaning – lack of life
direction or fit
plasticity
 Tendency toward exploration – creation of new
strategies and goals
 Attracted to unknown
 Look forward to opportunity to learn and grow
 Curious about many things
 Express self easily
 Create new and different ideas

7. https://scottbarrykaufman.com/sailboat-metaphor/

8. Transcendence – Peak Integration
 The transcendent self isn’t above others, it’s about integration
 Integration emerges internally and externally…
 deep integration of all of the human needs: stability + growth
 integration of self and the world
 Purpose is harmonious with the world – no separation with the world,
strong part of humanity
 Horizontal transcendence, not vertical (hierarchical and superior)
https://instituteofcoaching.org/resources/webinar-new-hierarchy-needs

9. 10 domains of self-actualization (30 item assessment)
internal
 Acceptance of self and others – quirks and all
 Good moral intuition – strong sense of right & wrong
 Authenticity – true to values, integrity, dignity
 Clarity - clear perception of reality
 Equanimity – stability, grace, resilience
external
 Appreciation/gratitude for what is good – new & old
 Purpose and responsibility to help humanity
 Humanitarianism – compassion for all humans
 Peak experiences – new horizons, transcend self
 Creative spirit – spontaneity, creativity

10. positive scores on self-actualization correlate with…
 Stability trait
 Self-DeterminationTheory core needs – autonomy, competence, relatedness
 Life satisfaction
 Joyful exploration (curiosity assessment) – a good life is based on personal growth and contribution
 Ryff model – self-acceptance, positive relations, growth, autonomy, environmental mastery, purpose
 Peak experiences – sense of unity alongside strong sense of self (not loss of self)
 Job performance, job satisfaction, creative ability
 Good sense of humor

11. how to
self-actualize?

12. Scott’s Principles: Coaching for Wholeness
1. Strive to balance your needs
2. Accept your Whole Self not just your Best Self
3. Become aware of inner conflicts (multiplicity of mind)
4. Look for lop-sided development
5. Create the best version of yourself
6. Learn to trust your self-actualizing tendency (move toward growth)
7. Strive for growth not happiness
8. Harness the power of your dark side (transform thunderstorms into rainbows)
https://instituteofcoaching.org/resources/webinar-new-hierarchy-needs

13. assess, reflect, act
assess
Self-assess the 10
domains of self-
actualization and/or
8 coaching principles.
reflect
Notice and unpack
strengths.
Identify growth edges.
act
Prioritize and move
forward with self-
improvements –
testing new mindsets
and habits.

14. thank you to Scott
learn more by readingTranscend