A Short-Form Measure of Self-Actualization

Abstract

The importance of the concept self-actualization is discussed in the context of explaining and predicting behavior in complex organizations. Assessing self-actualization by use of the semistructured research interview is discussed; and a short-form, structured instrument is set forth, not as a substitute, but as an alternative technique that may better meet the needs of investigators and practitioners, particularly where time, expense, and (relative lack of) interviewing and analytic skills are important factors. The short form is validated (a) by comparing the data yielded by it with the data yielded by the semistructured form and (b) by showing that the scores yielded by the structured technique are associated with the same phenomena as the scores yielded by the semistructured technique.