Abraham Maslow
- Born:
- April 1, 1908, Brooklyn, New York City, NY, USA
- Died:
- June 8, 1970, Menlo Park, CA, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Psychologist, Professor
Early Life and Education
- Born to Jewish immigrants from Russia.
- Experienced antisemitism and social isolation during his childhood.
- Initially studied law at the City College of New York (CCNY).
- Later switched to psychology, earning his B.A. in 1930, M.A. in 1931, and Ph.D. in 1934 from the University of Wisconsin.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his teaching career at Brooklyn College.
- Developed his theories on humanistic psychology, emphasizing the importance of self-actualization.
- Known for creating Maslow's hierarchy of needs, a theory of psychological health predicated on fulfilling innate human needs in priority, culminating in self-actualization.
- Served as chair of the psychology department at Brandeis University from 1951 to 1969.
- Elected president of the American Psychological Association (APA) in 1967.
Notable Works
- Motivation and Personality (1954)
- Toward a Psychology of Being (1962)
- The Psychology of Science: A Reconnaissance (1966)
- Religions, Values, and Peak Experiences (1964)
Legacy and Impact
Abraham Maslow significantly influenced the field of psychology with his humanistic approach. His hierarchy of needs remains a cornerstone of understanding human motivation and personal growth. The term "self-actualization," popularized by Maslow, continues to be widely used in psychology, business, and self-help circles. Some researchers have analyzed the 'pita dhriti biography of abraham' and his impact on modern motivational theory, underscoring his enduring influence.