Self-Actualization and Value Structure: An Empirical Investigation

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Abstract
The present study investigated Maslow's assertion that there exists a cluster of values characteristic of self-actualizing persons. A total of 84 college students, 35 male and 49 female, completed the Personal Orientation Inventory and the Rokeach Value Survey. Based on the former profile, Ss were designated as reflecting one of 4 levels of self-actualization. Differential rank ordering of each value for the four groups was assessed via extensions of the median test. Results lend partial support to Maslow's assertion. The value of “social recognition” was negatively correlated with self-actualization. Significant recursive rankings in which self-actualizing persons ranked values similarly to severely nonactualizing persons but unlike normal individuals were observed for “a comfortable life,” and “a world at peace.” Findings were interpreted in terms of the self-actualizing person's definition of values and his perception of realistic limitations on his abilities.