The development of the concept of self-actualization in the writings of abraham Maslow

The development of Maslow’s concept of self-actualization is traced through four decades of his published writings. It is argued that his views evolved in content and sophistication, but that he never achieved a final coherent theory of self-actualization. Certain characteristics of Maslow’s approach are discussed, and it is suggested that these may have prevented the development of a satisfactory formulation.