Self Actualization: The Role Of Nature Vs. Nurture

Self actualization is the attainment of fulfillment of one’s own sense of being in a gestalt

manner of wholeness where experience, wisdom, freedom, and acceptance is realized within a

spiritual and material state of existence. Self actualization is not only the realization of one’s

purpose in life but the acceptance of their purpose and its betterment of mankind. According

to the article, actualization of human potential can be attained through unconditional positive

reinforcements. In the article, self actualization is analogous to the role of nature vs. nurture.

Humans are innately active with an inherent drive for organization and this action can be

realized to its full potential through societal nourishment and encouragement. …show more content…
In my interpretation, we, as humans, integrate all of our experiences, knowledge,

and wisdom, to assist in attaining not only self realization and actualization but enlightenment as

well. When all of these aspects are integrated and purpose and self acceptance is realized,

we attain a subtle harmonious pastoral bliss or Eudaimonia.

The nurturing aspects of self realization are conceptualized when psychological needs are

met. The causation of deprival of basic psychological needs are psychological disorders such as

low self esteem, feelings of unworthiness, lethargy and purposelessness. I am of the opinion that

when psychological needs are not met, humans resort to basic survival mode. The pleasures of

life become exchanged for basic survival, and life becomes something to exist through rather

than something to live for. According to the article when basic psychological needs are met,

autonomy, competence, and relatedness, a healthy sense of completion, societal placement,

and overall well being is attained.

Competence is not necessarily the ability to do the task at hand but rather the ability to

perform a task that is beyond one’s normal capabilities. These challenges nourish growth