Therapist Development Center Practice Exam 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

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What does the term "self-actualization" refer to according to Maslow's hierarchy of needs?

The pursuit of material wealth and success

The realization of one's full potential and self-fulfillment

The term "self-actualization" according to Maslow's hierarchy of needs refers to the realization of one's full potential and self-fulfillment. This concept denotes the process of becoming everything that one is capable of becoming, which includes the pursuit of personal growth, creativity, and the desire to achieve one's personal best. Individuals who reach this stage are driven by intrinsic motivations and prioritize personal development beyond just basic needs or societal expectations.

In Maslow's framework, self-actualization stands at the top of the pyramid, emerging only after the more fundamental needs—such as physiological needs, safety and security, love and belonging, and esteem—have been adequately met. This emphasizes that self-actualization is not simply about achieving external goals but finding fulfillment and meaning in one's own unique path, thereby cultivating a rich sense of purpose and individuality.

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The desire for social acceptance and belonging

The need for safety and security in life

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