Comparing Psychological Theories of Belonging
This page delves deeper into Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and compares it with Self-Determination Theory, highlighting their approaches to understanding belonging and identity formation.
Maslow's Hierarchy in Detail
The page presents a detailed breakdown of Maslow's Hierarchy, including:
- Physiological needs (base of the pyramid)
- Safety needs
- Love and belonging
- Esteem
- Self-actualization (top of the pyramid)
Highlight: The sense of belonging is positioned as a crucial middle stage in Maslow's hierarchy, becoming relevant once basic survival needs are met.
Differences Between Theories
The document outlines key differences between Maslow's Hierarchy and Self-Determination Theory:
- Maslow's theory is more detailed and physically bonded, focusing on what needs to be fulfilled for a sense of belonging.
- Self-Determination Theory is described as a state of mind, explaining what must be fulfilled before a sense of belonging can develop.
- Maslow emphasizes individual needs, while Self-Determination Theory focuses more on reactions and feedback people receive for their actions.
- Maslow's theory doesn't explicitly address negative influences on the sense of belonging.
The Ambiguity of Belonging
The page introduces the concept of "The Ambiguity of Belonging":
Definition: The ambiguity of belonging refers to not knowing where one belongs, experiencing conflicting feelings, and constantly negotiating one's place in society.
This concept involves:
- Adjusting and readjusting one's position
- Shaping and reshaping one's identity
The Need for Belonging
The document emphasizes the importance of belonging:
Highlight: People have a strong desire to form and maintain enduring interpersonal attachments.
Key points about the need for belonging include:
- Social bonds form easily, even under adverse conditions
- Maintaining relationships is a strong human desire
- There's a clear link between relationships and emotions
- Lack of belongingness can lead to mental and physical health issues, as well as behavioral problems
