Abraham Maslow said the following in his book called Toward a Psychology of Being,
"Clearly what will be
called personality problems depends on who is doing the calling. The slave owner? The dictator? The patriarchal father? The husband who wants his wife to remain a
child? It seems quite clear that
personality problems may sometimes be loud protests against the crushing of
one’s psychological bones, of one’s true inner nature. What is sick then is not to protest while
this crime is being committed. And I am
sorry to report my impression that most people do not protest under such treatment. They take it and pay years later, in neurotic
and psychosomatic symptoms of various kinds, or perhaps in some cases never
become aware that they are sick, that they have missed true happiness, true
fulfillment of promise, a rich emotional life, and a serene, fruitful old age,
that they have never known how wonderful it is to be creative, to react
aesthetically, to find life thrilling."
What the heck is he talking about? Please explain YOUR thoughts. Splichal
Oh my gosh, I've studied this phenomena again and again at KU and MU. (both good schools, by the way). This author is describing a few constructs of social psychology which may indeed by disturbing to most people, yet happens everyday and is quite common. The constructs are 'in-group vs. out-group' and bystander effect. One example comes to my mind. A weed is any plant growing where it is unwanted. By this definition, an orchid growing on a tree in Hawaii would be a weed if the owner didn't desire it to be there. Personality problems, and I've never really heard of this before. It certainly isn't in the DSM-IV. Are people who are considered eccentric have an abnormal personality? What is normal? I refer to the famous quote by Ruth Gordon in the movie Harold and Maude when she is trying to encourage Harold to stop hiding his eccentricities and mingle with humanity. "Take a chance, get hurt even, but play the game as well as you can. Give me a 'T', 'E', 'A', 'M', (smiles), otherwise, you got nothing to talk about in the locker room"
ReplyDeleteAnother thing, check out the triple x milgrim experiment from the 60's. This could not happen now because of human subject committee's, but I know I was shocked when I first saw that participants in this landmark experiment would pretty much electrically shock a stranger just because an authoritative figure told them to. What happened to moral judgement. Also, the biggest indicator whether a person will help another person amounts to time. It's just such a strange quote we are responding to because abnormal psychology or abnormal personality or whatever you want to call it. Maybe he is referring to cognitive dissonance theory, which states if your actions and are consistent with your belief system, something has to give. Similar to assimilation.
ReplyDeleteIt seems to me that we need to be ourselves. If I spend my entire life trying to be something that I'm not, than I miss out on being me. Being me is what should truly make me happy.
ReplyDeleteI would like to add to what you are saying. :) I think that it is about something deeper than just being happy. If we take a second to think about what happy means I think that it is clear that 'being happy' is something that is dependent on what is 'happening' in our life.
DeleteMaslow says "they have missed true happiness, true fulfillment of promise, a rich emotional life, and a serene, fruitful old age, that they have never known how wonderful it is to be creative, to react aesthetically, to find life thrilling."
Just the word happy can't contain or describe this kind of fulfillment. I do know what you mean though!! :) I just wanted to add that. Thanks.
It appears to me Maslow is pointing out that each person has an individual personality. This personality is unique and may not be universally compatibility with all others. People can take abuse and rejection, but only those that can or care to stand up to abuse and rejection will lead a full life. However, often times, people just accept that they are in fact troubled, problematic, and/or worthless because it is easier to doubt yourself than it is to try to change others opinions.
ReplyDeleteI really like what you said about individuality and that the term 'personality problem' is a true oxymoron because it just is, and some people you will mesh with and some you won't. That's okay. I've heard of personality conflicts before and there are such things as personality disorders, but no problems. That's like saying there is such a thing as self-plagiarism. The very definition of plagiarism is taking someone else s work as your own. If your using your words, which have built from a lifetime of experience over and over again, then that's the foundation of the educational system as we know it, not self-plagiarism. You'd be surprised how many highly educated people believe this is a true phenomena (actually, I think academic administration invented it just to harass students, ha,ha,)
DeleteIt reminds me of a story I heard on the radio a few months ago it was about a girl that could not sit still in class. The school called in her parents and informed them that she had ADHD and that she should be put on medication to deal with the problem. The parents were upset about this but decided to follow the schools advice and took their daughter to the doctor. The doctor examined the girl and said she doesn't have a problem. The problem is that she has to set still all day in school and has no outlet for her movement. The docter suggested dance classes. The girl began the classes and almost began doing better in school, but more importantly she developed a real love to dance and became a professional dancer. I think the moral of that is that we as teachers need to focus on what a students strengths are and how we can use those to teach them not dwell on their weaknesses and how that makes our work harder.
ReplyDeleteI loved your story here. I think that it make complete sense to think just because something is out of your norm it still may not be abnormal. We have to enjoy the differences in others and remember that opposites attract.
DeleteHanna
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ReplyDeleteI think that Maslow is trying to point out that as a person we have our own ideas of how we should be treated. To me he's saying that if you don't stick up for yourself you are set up for the failure of your personality. If people put you down and you accept it and don't stand up for yourself after a while you start thinking the same thing of yourself as what those people were saying of you. In elementary school for the longest time all I heard was "treat others as you want to be treated." Okay, that's all fine and dandy but everyone wants to be treated differently therefor they treat others different. There is no set rules as to how you should treat someone. I feel like if I want to be respected then I must show respect. If I want to be talked to like an adult then I should act like an adult and so on.
ReplyDeleteWhat one person considers a personality to be problematic depends on the person identifying the problem. What I consider to be a personality problem may not be what a trained psychologist would consider to be a personality disorder. People who display personality disorders do not understand any other way to behave or act because they believe their behavior to be normal or acceptable, many not even realizing they have a problem. The true sickness comes from those who do nothing to help those that have the problem. If we do nothing to seek help for sick individuals, their unacceptable or even dangerous behavior rests on our shoulders as well. It is very sad to think that someone who is sick could seek help and learn what true happiness is and lead a full, rich life but no one offers to guide them to this understanding. We cannot ignore those that need help because their problem is our problem. Personality problems that remain untreated can lead to tragedy, as we have seen time and time again in the news with school shootings and home-grown terror groups. Perhaps if someone who had suspicions of illness had brought it to their attention, these tragedies may not have occurred. These people tend to be outsiders for one reason or another and if left alone will continue to manifest inappropriate behaviors. I can think of a few children I have worked with that scare me to death! Really! Fortunately they get the help they need through mental health services but their daily struggles, both inner and societal, will not be ingnored.
ReplyDeleteI think that this means that we need to be true to ourselves. I believe that he is saying that depending on who you talk to or what you think about yourself is what is true. If you believe that this is what you have then that is what becomes true. You begin to live your life in this small box and forever fell this way. Your life will then be taken from you because of what you have been told or become to believe. Although I do not completely understand this to the extent that I think he is trying to tell us, I do think that he is saying that people will be stripped of their lives and most do not get the treatment that they deserve to overcome these struggles they are faced with.
ReplyDeleteI really liked your statement about being true to ourselves. I know many times I will say or act a certain way because it is expected, when in actuality that is not me. I wish I could overcome this but once again society has certain expectations and many of us are afraid of letting society down. I really like your post and it has encouraged me to "be true to myself"
DeleteI believe Abraham Maslow is saying that many times we say people have personality “problems” but in reality they may simply be different or not exactly what we want them to be. I believe he is also saying that those people who are being blamed for having personality problems should stand up for themselves and not miss out on the chance to be truly happy. Some people begin to believe that there is something “wrong” with them when in reality, they are their own being and can be whoever they want. Maslow believes that if the person does not protest to being treated in such ways they will later be unhappy with their life and be emotionally cheated. These people may not realize what it really means to be loved, happy, or how great it feels to be creative in their own way and not “walk on nails” around certain individuals. If they stand up for themselves and realize that everyone is allowed to be different, they will find life to be thrilling and may find true happiness.
ReplyDeleteAnother topic that could fit in with this quote is in a classroom. I believe in many cases teachers have preconceived notions about certain children and have a bad attitude toward them before they step in their classroom. This is completely unfair to the child and cheats them of a good learning experience. I hope I am never guilty of this. I hope to be open to all children and work as hard as I can to understand their situation by becoming familiar with their home life, talking to their parents or guardians, finding out the ways they learn best, and striving to give them any adaptations they may need in my classroom.
Each of the examples that Maslow cites as being the "callers" of a personality problem are all people who are in authority over someone else. In life there is always someone making the rules, whether it is a single person or a group of people and their rules determine what is "right", "fair", "normal", etc. Of course a slave owner might say that their slave had a "personality problem" if that slave were trying to raise up against the oppression of slavery. The slave owner expects the slave to do their duty quietly, obediently, respectfully and above all - until death do us part. A slave owner does not expect to be bargained with or forced to negotiate fair and equitable wages, safe working conditions, reasonable hours and a 401K. And then life changes - the world changes and now the slave owner is the one with a "personality problem" because the slave owner believes that using "uncivilized" and uneducated persons for free labor, while providing them a free place to live (two walls and a roof), free food (table scraps) and teaching them a productive skill, just makes good moral and financial sense.
ReplyDeleteI say potato, you say pahtahto. Yet, HOW can "you" say pahtahto when I'm holding my authority over you like a guillotine?
Oppression, suppression and forced repression can all lead to a person being squelched to the point of crazy. Yes they should stand up for themselves and in a perfect world they might, but in reality many people need help, they need a hand, or a shoulder or darn it maybe even just a voice to break through the cacophony of "don'ts" so that their true self can come out. Think about how many people were put into an asylum because they didn't act "right" - studied to the point of insanity and not in humane ways.
Maslow points out that not only should people in authority be more open-minded to people who are subordinate to them (teachers/students, parents/kids, etc.) but that those who are being forced into a box should push back and that if others see someone in a box they should throw them a rope. Another poster referenced a radio piece about a child with suspected ADHD. I do believe there are children with this medical condition - however I also believe, as the doctor in the story suggested, that there are ways to help children direct their eccentricities (whether they be physical energy, excessive talking, active imagination, etc.) to help them discover their own strengths (and weaknesses) to develop a personality (behaviors, attitudes, belief system) that allows them to function and enjoy life to its fullest extent.
I like your last paragraph! I think people/doctors/teachers/parents feel a need to label kids with some kind of diagnosis to help us understand or put a reason to why a kid is the way they are. The answer always seems to be meds and for some kids it works but many others I think just need some behavior modification (when I was kid my parents called it spanking). I'm not trying to condone that type of physical "violence" as some would have it called, but behavior management/modification steps can help in certain situations. I work with kids every day who are social misfits of sorts who need such simple intervention such as how to properly bathe, or why it's important to not wear the same clothes every day or not wear them if they haven't been washed, clip their fingernails, wash with soap and not just water. And often times kids need this help because their parents don't know either. So who helps the parents learn these things. We can't just look down on these people for being different. I feel it is my duty as a human being to help them help themselves.
DeleteI think first Maslow is saying that “normal” is a matter of perspective. He is questioning, what exactly “normal” and acceptable behavior is and who decides? He conveys that the answer to this question is generally those in authority and/or the majority opinion. StacieA made a great point demonstrating this in her description of the oppressed slave vs. the slave owner. Who has the personality problem is dependent on the social constructs of the time, place, and culture.
ReplyDeleteMaslow also makes it clear that the man who sacrifices his very self, to conform to these social norms, will never be truly happy and, in fact, will be unhappy. I completely agree with Randy R., who said we need to be ourselves and that we will never be happy spending our whole lives trying to be something we’re not. I feel that was one of the major points that Maslow wanted to make.
Unfortunately, he also states those being labeled all too often do not fight back for their right to be different. As for how this pertains to education, I think that we label acceptable behavior at a very young age, so before children can comprehend their desire and need to fight back, they have already been conformed, labeled, or otherwise confined. Therefore, as educators, we need to find a balance of teaching responsible and respectful behavior, while encouraging individual differences and allowing students to rise above the confines of uniformity so that they can each reach their full individual potential.
I agree with you. I think that the labeled individuals may not even know that they are missing out on anything that might be better. If society deems that this is the way things are then the mistreated may not even know that it is ok to say "This isn't right, I deserve better". It may not even be in their realm of thinking. Society plays a major role on what is acceptable and what is not. In the past and even potentially today, there have been teachers or individuals that have had huge problems created for them because they believed they were helping out their students and went against what society deemed was acceptable. Society and culture play a huge role in the way everything is perceived and I believe that will continue to be the case until the end of time.
DeleteI agree with your first sentence. "Normal" is a matter of perspective. Some of the most intelligent people (especially those who invent new products) were social outcasts of some form. Steve Jobs was obviously a brilliant man who chose to do things or not do things, not according to what others deemed appropriate, but according to his own wishes. Many co-workers from his younger days complained about his lack of hygiene.
DeleteI teach a high school Entrepreneurship class and one of things we talk about is that many entrepreneur were at one time social misfits. Without these people who think and feel differently than "the rest of society" we would be without new upcoming products like light bulbs and IPads
I truly hope teacher learn to recognize the strengths their students have and encourage those strengths rather than try to get them to conform to the "norm".
It's like being bullied! And people begin to think they are exactly what others say they are. If you are told repeatedly you are stupid you will know you are stupid! Or if you think you are poor and helpless you will remain poor and helpless until someone teaches you otherwise. Look at the changes we have had in education in the past 50 years concerning kids who are different! We have gone from sticking kids in institutions to including them in our regular education classrooms. Somewhere along the way someone chose to make a difference for people who had no voice. I agree with you that society and culture play a huge role in the way everything is perceived but small steps can make big changes in the long run. One step at a time!
DeleteI agree with you in saying that we eventually believe what others say about us. We want to fit into the norm so badly that we believe others know us better than we know ourselves. We are all guilty of thinking bad thoughts of someone else at least once in our life. Many of us then realize our thoughts may not be right. You made some great points.
DeleteWhile reading the beginning of this quote, I started thinking about societal groups who have been oppressed historically: women pre-1960s, outspoken minorities pre-1960s, Native Americans who refused to assimilate, slaves who ran away to be with their families or wanted to read, various religious groups (different ones at different times), etc. I also started to think about people that typically go against the “norm,” like boys who like to dance or do art. It also reminds me of the movie “Changeling,” based on real life events, that deals with female disempowerment. Angelina Jolie plays a mother whose son goes missing in 1928. The police return a random boy to her, and when she insists that he is not her son the police commit her to a psychiatric hospital. Apparently, the police did this quite often for women (maybe men?) who challenged their authority. In all of these situations, the problem was not with the people themselves but with those who accused them of having the problem. Some people fought it, others did not, or didn’t fight it it until much later in history. Other people chose to conform. It is difficult to know for sure how these accusations affected the innocent, how much damage has been done to the mental and emotional well being of these people, especially the conformists. Do these people even know they have been deprived? Did they have a choice to do anything differently?
ReplyDeleteWoW! So much to consider from your post Amy. I haven't seen Changeling but I want to now. I think I have a date with Netflix!
DeleteGood point Amy! I didn't consider this quote on a bigger scale such as groups. I only seen one person attacking another. I didn't consider the norm holding a whole group of people back.
DeleteAmy--exactly. Though I would add a word for those who have the power to determine what's "normal": privilege. It's not just individuals deciding this, it's groups of people with power. Additionally, these groups are just random, heterogeneous groups--they're specific people who have privilege.
DeleteTo be honest to took me several times rereading Mr. Abraham Maslow’s words to really understand them. To me is seems as if Maslow is talking about how we want to live, what we want our personalities to be, and if we are going to let others decided our fate. Personally, I have a strong feeling towards individuals who have a desire to control someone else’s personally, or their fate. I believe that we are created to become our own person. However, the people and environment we surround ourselves in takes a toll on our lives. I have witnessed good people go bad because of the environment they were in, and I have seen those same people get out of the bad situation and become the person they were created to be. It takes compassion to be an individual, and courage to let your individuality shine.
ReplyDeleteIt also took me a few times after reading to get an understanding. I also thought that it was really important to be ourselves and use our personality and not alter who we are because of other or the other persons personality.
DeleteI felt as if Maslow was saying that society can determine how people treat others and how they believe they should be treated. There have been different times and places where each of the ways Maslow described people being treat was ok by societies terms. If society deems that the man is the ruler of the family then it may just be a given that the female will act as society deems is necessary, as a child or slave or any other way. How society treats different races and socioeconomic statuses also will determine how people believe they can treat others and how they themselves should be treated. The belief systems within a culture or society will determine what is acceptable behavior and what is not. As civilizations grow or decline then what is acceptable behavior will change. People will in general be alright with good or bad behavior if "that is always how it has been" is the answer for why something is happening. Many people that are living within a belief system that allows for them to be degraded do not know any other way and therefore do not even know that it can be better. They may not even believe it should be better.
ReplyDeleteKristi,
DeleteI have read some historical fiction related to migrant workers in California in the early part of the 20th century. Many people from Mexico accepted appalling living/working conditions and being treated like dirt because there was always someone who would take their job for less wages and worse conditions. This was acceptable, and might still be in some places. Some people thought it was the best they could do. If you spoke up you were fired, deported, or worse. Some people even had no desire to speak up.
It took me two times after reading the insert that I understood what he was trying to explain. I think this passage means that we all have a very unique personality and it depends on if we use or true personality or use a "false personality. Also, From the passage i got the understanding that we all need to be ourselves and if you do not get along with someone it could be because they may have a personality you do not mesh well with.
ReplyDeleteI too had to read it more than once. I really like your statement about if we use our true personality than we are considered to have false personality. Maybe we are the ones thinking right and the others have the problem. One example of this is religion. some believe one way and others that may not believe that think the first group is warped and in need of help. This post really made me think about false personalities and who is in charge of deciding who is right and who is wrong.
DeleteI say that Maslow is describing the characteristics of many educators or people of influence disagree with the idea that someone may not live up to their expectation of what they want to be. His post brings up the concern of individuality and it really isn't a personality problem at all. We should embrace the unique qualities of every student and keep an open mind to their individual characteristics and not try to dictate or change them to be miserable and ineffective just because it isn't exactly to your standards or because you are afraid of thinking outside of the box or change.
ReplyDeleteWhat is considered a personality problem to some, may not be to others. Society determines the norms and everyone must fit that norm or be classified as having a personality disorder or oddity. When people fail to speak out and express their individual desires, then they lose and are forced to fall into the norm. If a person does voice their desires that are outside the norm, then they will be labeled and singled out from the rest of society. I believe the "sickness" referred to in the excerpt is referring to the loss of one's desires and individuality. Since the person gave up they will not know what it is like to live a life that they would have chosen, had they not given up to fit the norm. This is important to remember in the classroom. As children are developing, discouraging their individuality can have lasting consequences in their psychological development. It is better to foster creativity and promote an understanding of different views.
ReplyDeleteI agree that society has certain norms and expectations and that society is willing to accept those norms. We spend so much time fitting the norm that we forget to live our lives. I agree that at times if a person does express their thoughts and it does not fit what everyone else thinks then the person is criticized for having a different thought. I like how you stated that if one chooses to be different then they are labeled. We do put too many labels on people. Great post
DeleteWhat is normal I ask. We, as a society, are too busy trying to act how we think we are supposed to act and do not act ourselves. We spend so much time trying to fit in and we lose out on living. We try to be something we are not. I like the word you used "oddity". Exactly what oddity is depends on the person you ask. Why do we let one person have more power over us? great post! Got me to thinking.
DeleteI think the very first sentence of this quote could easily be summed up in a few short words: “Who is to say what is acceptable and unacceptable?” People declare that one person’s looks, hobbies, personality traits are not acceptable because they are not truly happy with themselves. Calling out others’ personality problems is an easy outlet for them to find happiness. I believe the victim is being referred to when Maslow writes, “What is sick then is not to protest while this crime is being committed.” Maslow believes it is a big problem when the victim does not stand up for him/herself. Those people who stand there and take the mistreatment all of their lives are the ones who have psychological problems and never believe that they are good enough. They never get the chance to see how good life can be or much happiness they can find.
ReplyDeleteI agree that we too often become miserable because we cannot be who we desire to be. We offend spend time being something we aren't just so we fit in. I also agree with you when you said the ones that stand and take the mistreatment are the ones who need help and have mental problems. It does definitely turn into low self esteem. You made some great points
DeleteI agree Sara- Who is to say what is acceptable and unacceptable? And why in the world do we all seem to listen at some point or another without questioning it? The part of the quote that struck me was "It seems quite clear that personality problems may sometimes be loud protests against the crushing of one’s psychological bones, of one’s true inner nature." This seems so true, in adults and in children. We view some people as acting out of sorts or rebelling, when really they are just trying to voice or be who they truly are. The harm is done when they stop speaking out, they are doing themselves a diservice, and those around them that don't speak out either are in the wrong as well.
ReplyDeleteI have not been exposed to this quote until this assignment. I had to read a few times and take each line in to fully comprehend what I thought. The overall point (from my perspective) would be the treatment of each other. I didn’t read this and only see one perspective that was being pointed out. I seen both the person that may be offended by a “personality problem” and the person that was being attacked. From the perspective of the, what I will call the attacker (the person making the statement that someone has a personality problem) has just as sad future as the one not standing up for themselves. I have always told my daughter that if she ever puts someone down that means she has to be pretty low herself to hold that person down. If someone is claiming that another person has personality problems, in my opinion, that is a put down. That is a way to control another person and attack someone else to weaken them into a position that would make the attacker feel more superior. That in itself is sick. So when I got to the line, “What is sick then is not to protest while this crime is being committed”, I became a bit confused. Clearly Maslow is stating that it is sick to not protest when something like that is happening, but did he mean just the person being attacked? What if he meant everyone who is witnessing such filth being done. I then went on to the next line, “They take it and pay years later, in neurotic and psychosomatic symptoms of various kinds, or perhaps in some cases never become aware that they are sick, that they have missed true happiness, true fulfillment of promise, a rich emotional life, and a serene, fruitful old age, that they have never known how wonderful it is to be creative, to react aesthetically, to find life thrilling." The very first word is THEY, meaning the person being attacked. I finally ended up thinking that maybe Maslow was trying to point out that the abusive words that are spoken to someone can go on to contribute to “personality problems later.” Their confidence has been chipped away causing them to be hesitant to life in general. I knew of a girl that had the highest confidence known by anyone. She thought she could do anything she wanted and often times accomplished a lot. She felt good, looked good, and was very happy. She dated a guy who broke her down. 6 months he managed to rip every ounce of confidence out of her. It took years for her to first off get away from him and then to repair the damage that had been done to herself. Had she not been around a few strong people to pull her out of the situation, she would have went the rest of her life never achieving her potential in every aspect of life. She would have always been in his shadow thinking that she was nothing. Apparently Maslow thinks this result is considered being sick. I personally think that calling it being sick is a bit strong, but certainly can see his point. Bottom line, don’t waste your life trying hold people back and never let anyone hold you back.
ReplyDeleteI think that Maslow is describing different types of personality traits and how people act differently depending on which point of view they are in. There are people out there with very strong personalities who tend to speak their mind and do what they want. There are also people out there that let everyone walk all over them because they feel inferior, they know they should speak up or do something but they don't. Maslow also points out how much missing out on life people do when they let people walk all over them.
ReplyDeleteI think it is very interesting to see the different answers and interpretations of this persons statement. Everyone is on the same track but no one has given the same exact statement of what they think. This to me is interesting because this statement is based on how people view themselves as well as others. People who have these personality issues take it out on the people who are not effected but have to deal with it and pay for the actions of others. He, in my opinion, is saying that most people do not fight back or show any type of protest towards thee people. I think it is interesting that every time you read this quote you could get a different interpretation.
ReplyDeleteI have read this a total of three times and broken down each sentence to try and figure out the meaning behind each statement. I believe that Maslow is talking about two types of personalities in this world, those that are so called bullies and thrive on running people down and tearing them mentally apart, and those that do not stand up to the people that do this to them and are left forever scarred emotionally. Because these people did not have the strength to stand up for themselves while this was taking place their lives not only will never be the same, but they are leading long unhappy lives because of it. People that are doing the bullying do not see themselves in that role and see no problem with what they are doing to others. In the end there is only poor souls that do not even have enough self-confidence to realize how very special they are and how much they could have contributed to the world.
ReplyDeleteCharelle, I too had to read this passage several times to finally figure out what I thought it meant. Once I did, I began to think of perfect examples of the situation that was described. There are so many people out there that suffer under these conditions and it is sad that they don't stand up for themselves and others don't stand up for them.
DeleteHi Brandy,
DeleteI agree with you in that it is sad to see people not take a stand in these types of situations, and that there are so many people who know that this is taking place, but will not get into other people's business to help them. Then again, I can think of personal situations where I have seen these things happening to certain family members, and tried talking to them and showing support, only to watch them stay in the situation they were in. It makes me wonder if all, or a vast majority of people that are being victimized have abusive pasts, or is it just passive personalities that keep them from standing up for themselves?
WOW I could think of so many ways to go with the line “Personality problems”… Let me start out by saying that I myself struggled with what my friends and family looked at as a personality problem. After my son was born I did not want to leave the house it wasn’t that I was depress but rather I was overwhelmed with fear that something would happen to my new purpose in life which was keeping my son happy and safe. It took a while to adjust to the face that I could not control every outside stimulus that would affect my son and I had to rely on the fact that I would be a good enough job at keeping him safe.
ReplyDeleteOver time my fears subsided and now that I look back I don’t think that my family was justified in thinking that I had a “personality problem” or as they would say “being crazy”. I think the mind has a way of keeping us safe from ourselves and for me I needed a few weeks to adjust to being a mom before being put under the watchful eye of today’s society.
Fast forward 9 years I now has a super responsible and incredibly kind 9 y/o that makes me more proud each day. We are foster parents and just had a 5y/0 and 9m/o go home after living with use for 6 months. I don’t look at their parents with judgment rather I look at it and am thankful that I got to be there for those boys when they needed some stability. We all have our quirks and if we stop judging each other we may just see that we get along much better in the end.
I also know what you are talking about when you say that most of us stay even when our personalities are under attack. I think it is much easier to see fault in one’s self then admit that you are letting someone hurt you.
I really liked how you pulled your own personal experiences into this post. I also think that most people (not all) see it easier to blame themselves rather than admitting that someone is or has hurt you. I think that most people need time to adjust to certain situations but some do not come out of those funks and this is where problems arise. Very good thoughts and personal experiences to tie to the assignment. =]
DeleteChristine Moses
I love your statement, "if we stop judging others we may just see that we get along much better in the end". That statement is very true!
DeleteI think what Maslow is trying to convey is that someone having a personality problem basically depends on the person who is thinking that. We all have different opinions and what one person thinks is not always going to be what another person thinks. We are all not wired the exact same way. When the passage says, “It seems quite clear that personality problems may sometimes be loud protests against the crushing of one’s psychological bones, of one’s true inner nature, I think that it means that when someone is controlled for so long they are pushed to the point where the only way that they can protest is to act out or display a “personality problem”. This might be the only way to get the attention of others who do not see the pain and suffering that the person is going through while they are being controlled. He also includes that he thinks “it is sick” that people don’t protest while they are under this control. This part of the passage made me think of Elizabeth Smart. She was under the control of Brian David Mitchell for over 9 months and could’ve easily escaped or told someone about what was going on but she was terrified and in their complete control. She was lucky enough to finally be found and was able to move on with her life, but for some people who never escape, they miss out on the joys of life and how great it can be.
ReplyDeleteI really do not like interpreting things because I never seem to be on target with everyone else. I took this to mean that many problems are caused by others thinking we need to act, look, or behave a certain way. We do not retaliate and therefore we miss out on what life has to offer. We are so busy tending to being what we are told to be, or how to act, that we actually lose out on what life has to offer. We spend all our time worry about how others think we are supposed act or think that we actually lose out on just enjoying who we are. Many times we end up having our own psychological problems to deal with because of being so worried about how others perceive us. We are also blamed for having problems that may not actually be our problem, but the person telling us we have problems problem. Hope this is understandable to everyone and not just me!!
ReplyDeleteI read this several times and I seemed to get several different meanings from it. It is definitely a thought provoking piece!
I posted once and now I don't see my post so I am posting again. If it already exists, I am sorry for re posting.
ReplyDeleteI really do not like interpreting things because I never seem to be on target with everyone else. I took this to mean that many problems are caused by others thinking we need to act, look, or behave a certain way. We do not retaliate and therefore we miss out on what life has to offer. We are so busy tending to being what we are told to be, or how to act, that we actually lose out on what life has to offer. We spend all our time worry about how others think we are supposed act or think that we actually lose out on just enjoying who we are. Many times we end up having our own psychological problems to deal with because of being so worried about how others perceive us. We are also blamed for having problems that may not actually be our problem, but the person telling us we have problems problem. Hope this is understandable to everyone and not just me!!
I think what Maslow is trying to convey is that someone having a personality problem basically depends on the person who is thinking that. We all have different opinions and what one person thinks is not always going to be what another person thinks. We are all not wired the exact same way. When the passage says, “It seems quite clear that personality problems may sometimes be loud protests against the crushing of one’s psychological bones, of one’s true inner nature, I think that it means that when someone is controlled for so long they are pushed to the point where the only way that they can protest is to act out or display a “personality problem”. This might be the only way to get the attention of others who do not see the pain and suffering that the person is going through while they are being controlled. He also includes that he thinks “it is sick” that people don’t protest while they are under this control. This part of the passage made me think of Elizabeth Smart. She was under the control of Brian David Mitchell for over 9 months and could’ve easily escaped or told someone about what was going on but she was terrified and in their complete control. She was lucky enough to finally be found and was able to move on with her life, but for some people who never escape, they miss out on the joys of life and how great it can be.
ReplyDeleteAwesome post! I agree that he is stating that it is he/she that throws the stones is the one with the problem! Being controlled is a horrible thing, and sadly so many people let the world run them over.
DeleteBrandy,
DeleteI felt the same way about the passage. You captured the essence of what Maslow was saying perfectly, in my opinion. The protest, after years of being pyschologically suppressed, comes out and is perceived as a personality problem. Well written.
I am not very good about summarizing things that read. I usually take out of the reading that no one else gets and I usually take different things from it. I believe this passage is referring to how society looks at those who may have a different option or interpretation of something. We are critzed for thinking different than the "norm". We spend so much time trying to have the same beliefs, desire, or act a certain way so others don't criticize us. We spend our lives trying to please others and fit in that we fail to be true to ourselves. We spend our lives not living our life. We become miserable and don't really know why. Eventually we develop psychiatric problems because of our desire to fit in and be normal.
ReplyDeleteOk I have tried blogging this answer five times, hopefully this will be it. I believe the article is saying that we spend too much of our life worrying what others are thinking. We spend our lives trying to be "normal" and acting like we think we think society expects us to act. The article asks who is in charge of deciding what is acceptable and what is not. Much of our lives are spent being something we are not and this leads to depression and metal issues. It is too bad we let others dictate to us. We miss out when we do what is supposed to be the norm.
ReplyDeleteYippy it worked:) I agree with your thoughts that the passage is trying to say that we spend too much time worrying about what other think. We need to all embrace what we are and live our lives to the fullest. I truly feel that in order to be successful at teaching or any other profession you must first look within and find what your true calling is. I unfortunately did not follow my own advice and got an HR degree and now am back 8 years latter finishing what was always my calling in life. regardless of what others feel/say it is up to use to be our own advocate and stand for what we feel is right.
ReplyDeleteThis blogging is like trying to teach an old dog (me) some new tricks.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading Maslow’s thoughts (I would never read this type of writing unless it was assigned, I mean, come on, people who write or talk this way need to be slapped a few times, kidding but not) and then all your blogs to this point, I think what Maslow is saying is that if you allow strong personalities to control you, they will. Is he saying to find ourselves, to find happiness, to not look back and wish we had our life over again then we should stand up for ourselves? Perhaps, I know that most people on their death bed when asked what they would do if they had their life over again. They would wish they had spent more time with their family, friends and serving their maker.
Honestly, I’m not certain what the heck Maslow is talking about. If his meaning is about finding happiness then my opinion is that true happiness is found only through faith in God, period. If it’s about standing up for something or fall for anything, I agree. Is he saying, unless your strong you’ll never be happy?
I did think of a few things when reading your blogs which I thought was much better than Maslow’s writing.
I thought of Sam Walton, the Wal-Mart founder and multi billionaire. He made his fortune servicing his customers. He was a family man, he drove an old ford truck and whore overhauls till the day he died. He never let anyone or anything come before his principles or his faith. He was happy with or without his fortune because God was first in his life.
I thought of the comedy “Overboard” with Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell. I’m sure most of you have seen the movie. Goldie played a “Rich B” and when Kurt had the chance to pay her back because she lost her memory he put her through living hell. The morale of the story is that she did not find true happiness until she found true love. When she realized how she had treated others is when she understood the meaning of happiness.
I thought of Pistol Pete Marivich and his great basketball journey to a million dollar NBA contract. It wasn’t until he found Faith in God before he found happiness.
If Maslow is saying that we must stand up for ourselves to be happy or to find ourselves, then I agree as long as we our putting God before ourselves or anything else.
Bill, i think you are missing his point. Most people never realize their potential toward happiness.
ReplyDeleteI do understand fulfilling ones potential and Maslows theory of lower level needs like safety and self-esteem before intellectual achievement and happiness. However, even the text book on page 435 says that some people deny themselves friendship in order to achieve knwoledge, understanding or greater self-esteem. My point is that most of us move back and forth among different types of needs or chase something that we think brings happiness.
ReplyDeleteYou ask what the heck he was talking about and my true answer was I don't know what the heck he is talking about. My opinion is what I gave toward seeking happiness and I believe that without Faith and Love there is no happiness. I agree in part but let me add "without faith" to your reply. Most people without faith never realize their potential toward happiness. People with faith seek to serve a higher power and their trust in God makes them happy.
I agree with what you are saying. I think faith can be a hard topic for one to fully grasp and understand. There are so many things that happen in the world around us, that makes us question every single type of faith. It's hard, and I think sometimes nobody understands. I liked your comment on how you think we move back and forth between different types of relationships. I think this is very true. When we do find what makes up happy, something different always comes along. It's a strange world we live in, thanks for your input on it!
DeleteAbraham Maslow said the following in his book called Toward a Psychology of Being,
ReplyDelete• My interpretation is bulleted and in red
"Clearly what will be called personality problems depends on who is doing the calling. The slave owner? The dictator? The patriarchal father? The husband who wants his wife to remain a child?”
• We all see each other through our own worldview
• People judge other people based on the things they know, have learned, and experienced
o “judge… 1. To form an opinion or estimation of after careful consideration.” – American Heritage College Dictionary
“It seems quite clear that personality problems may sometimes be loud protests against the crushing of one’s psychological bones, of one’s true inner nature.”
• This is talking about the person or people who may be considered different or even deviant, (“personality problems”) standing up for themselves
o “deviant… Differing from a norm or from the accepted standards of a society.” – American Heritage College Dictionary
“What is sick then is not to protest while this crime is being committed.”
• People who are different or deviant should stand up for themselves
“And I am sorry to report my impression that most people do not protest under such treatment.”
• The silent majority are also different or deviant and they do not stand up for themselves
“They take it and pay years later, in neurotic and psychosomatic symptoms of various kinds,”
• The silent majority suffer physical problems that were brought on by mental/emotional causes
“or perhaps in some cases never become aware that they are sick,”
• Sometimes the silent majority don’t even know they are sick
“that they have missed true happiness, true fulfillment of promise, a rich emotional life, and a serene, fruitful old age, that they have never known how wonderful it is to be creative, to react aesthetically, to find life thrilling."
• Sometimes the silent majority miss a fulfilling life because they never stood up for themselves
That is my interpretation of Maslow’s statement. I believe that we are all different and we should stand up for ourselves. I also believe that we should reflect on ourselves and our choices and do the best we can with what we have. This is our only life and we should not waste it. I pray that we all find truth in this world and show each other love and understanding.
Oops, I typed this in Word and pasted it in the blog. The blog obviously does not show red. So my interpretation is just bulleted! :) Have a great day.
DeleteGreat post! I really appreciate your statement that the silent majority misses out on a fulfilling life because they never stood up for themselves. I would rather be involved in a dispute or disagreement from sharing my point of view rather than to never be heard.
DeleteI like what you said about each of us seeing things through our own "worldview". And that past experiences help shape us into who we are and what we know. As teacher we have to remember to consider the background knowledge of our students. How can we expect students to write about a garage if their family doesn't own a car, let alone a garage. I hadn't thought about background knowledge until you mentioned previous experience shaping who we are. Good post!
DeleteIt seems I may have come a little late to this party, but Saturdays are homework days for me. :) So after reading the passage and starting into your responses, I realized I needed to re-read the passage and post my opinion before getting lost in everyone else's. I think the point that Maslow is trying to make is similar to the old saying, "beauty is in the eye of beholder." Just as the perception of beauty is subjective, so is the perception of another's personality problem. People seek to control others through the labeling of defects or personality problems and Maslow points out that many of us do not recognize when this is happening to ourselves and that in an effort to conform to what another wants us to be, we are suffering and going against our very nature. We may never realize our true potential and will not have lived an authentic life when we live it by someone else's rules and constraints. We may even suffer from true mental illness when we suppress ourselves this way. I think this applies at all levels - just as Maslow has pointed out from a dictator or other ruler of a country all the way down to a family unit.
ReplyDeleteThis statement could be interpreted in so many ways and differently by profession. I believe that he is encouraging the individual to display their own uniqueness. As a teacher, I will not teach exactly the same way as the teacher next door, or the teacher down the hall. Is it possible that I will have “personality problems” with other teachers or even the principal – probably. My goal is to teach effectively, not to be friends with the other 20 teachers in the building. The statement made by Maslow encourages us to be true to ourselves now, not putting on a show of someone we are not. He states that by not being sucked into the day-to-day drama of everyday life, we will have no regrets later!
ReplyDeleteI liked your interpretation of the quote!! I didn't think being "different" as a teacher. I will probably be one of those teachers who will stand out, not because I am popular, but because I am different. Sometimes different is good!
DeleteI liked your statements about wanting to teach effectively, and not just in the ways that everybody else is teaching. You must be your own person, and also your own teacher. Staying true to yourself, being your own person, standing up for what you believe is right, those are the types of things you will be showing your students. It sounds like you will be an amazing teacher one day!
DeleteI agree with you that teachers should not teach exactly the same as the other teachers around them. This was a great example of the concept Maslow is trying to point out that we should be true to ourselves and not live to the expectations of the others around us.
DeleteThis passage is saying that everyone is different and they do things their own way. To be led by someone else to do things their way is like leading a life that is untrue to you. By the time you realize this you are older and the moments have passed to really enjoy life the way you would want to. I think about high school and this passage. The leaders and the followers, as a follower you do, say and wear things that if you were honest with yourself you may not have done. The crime is not being true to you and living your life the way you want to live it to ensure you get the joy out of it.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading this passage multiple times, I understood it to mean that what one person defines as a "personality problem" of another person may just be their perception. At the same time, Maslow is saying that if those individuals that are having their personalities suppressed or curtailed, need to stand up and object to this before time passes and later in life "the problem" rears it ugly head. We as individuals need to be ourselves, not what others want us to be. If we allow this molding by another to take place, against our will, out true inner self and what has actually developed will result in conflict or inner turmoil.
ReplyDeleteI believe that statement is talking about how everybody has different ways they interpret life, feel, and learn. Sometimes those who do not "fit into the mold" as society deems "normal", are viewed outcasts and are encouraged not to be themselves. As an educator you must respect that all students are different. They learn differently, feel differently and have different home environments. Just because one student learns one way does not mean all the students in one class will learn that way. There is nothing worse and more damaging then to crush a students "soul" because they do not fit into the ideal mold of society.
ReplyDeleteRashawna,
DeleteI think you really nailed it when describing the quote as meaning how people interpret or perceive their reality and environment. The first thing I thought of after reading your post was the 'eccentric' personality that is oftentimes perceived by some individuals as problematic. These are those dreaded folks who don't fit into the mold. Tolerance and understanding is an excellent thing teachers can model and actively discuss (or implicitly educate through prosocial programming or character development constructs). I agree with you that being different shouldn't become an isolating feature for any student. What makes the situation even worse is the fact that these different kids are often bullied (for being different) which is a double-whammy on the psyche. As future educators, I think we can have a very positive impact on our students self-esteem and self-worth by embracing and celebrating uniqueness. I enjoyed your post, as it got me brainstorming about possibilities........
I posted the following yesterday...but I don't see it anywhere today? Glad I still had my Word Doc open! :)
ReplyDeleteIt seems I may have come a little late to this party, but Saturdays are homework days for me. :) So after reading the passage and starting into your responses, I realized I needed to re-read the passage and post my opinion before getting lost in everyone else's. I think the point that Maslow is trying to make is similar to the old saying, "beauty is in the eye of beholder." Just as the perception of beauty is subjective, so is the perception of another's personality problem. People seek to control others through the labeling of defects or personality problems and Maslow points out that many of us do not recognize when this is happening to ourselves and that in an effort to conform to what another wants us to be, we are suffering and going against our very nature. We may never realize our true potential and will not have lived an authentic life when we live it by someone else's rules and constraints. We may even suffer from true mental illness when we suppress ourselves this way.
Elizabeth,
DeleteI loved your post. I know what you mean about reading and re-reading the passage over and over again, trying to get different meaning out of it. Since we were asked:
What the heck is he talking about? Please explain YOUR thoughts. Splichal.
I decided to do some research to refresh (vaguely remember covering this in Personality Psychology class) to figure out what the heck Abraham Maslow meant with that passage. Here is what I discovered, taken mostly from Allpsychonline:
Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers supported a humanistic approach to personality, pointing out that other approaches do not factor in people's basic goodness and the motivational factors that push them toward higher levels of functioning. Researchers offering biological approaches to personality have focused on the action of specific genes and neurotransmitters as determinants.
People are Basically Good
Humanistic Psychology gets its name from its belief in the basic goodness and respect of humankind. Its roots are based in existential psychology or the understanding and acceptance of one's own existence and responsibility. Two American psychologists, Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers paved the way for this new approach to understanding personality and improving the overall satisfaction of individuals.
When conflict between war and peace arose in the early to mid 1960s, so to did the need to understand human nature. Humanistic theory gave us an understandable way to look at man's need for war for the sake of peace. It is a simplistic theory that has become one of the most popular topics in self-help style books and man's struggle for meaning has been and will always be a major part of literature and entertainment.
The basic ideas behind humanistic psychology are simple, some may say overly simple. Humanists hold the following beliefs:
1. The present is the most important aspect of the person and therefore humanists focus on the here and now rather than looking at the past or trying to predict the future.
2. Humanistic theory is reality based and to be psychologically healthy people must take responsibility for themselves, whether the person's actions are positive or negative.
3. The individual, merely by being human, posses an inherent worth. Actions may not be positive but this does not negate the value of the person.
4. The goal of life should always be to achieve personal growth and understanding. Only through self-improvement and self-knowledge can one truly be happy.
Application to Real Life
As you read through the section above, many likely tried to place themselves on one of the five levels of the pyramid. This may be an easy task for some, but many struggle with the ups and downs of life. For many of us, life is not that straight forward. We often have one foot in one level, the other foot in the next level, and are reaching at times trying to pull ourselves up while making sure we don't fall backward at other times.
As we climb the pyramid, we often make headway but also notice that two steps forward can mean one step back. Sometimes it even feels like two steps forward means three steps back. The goal of mankind, however, is to keep an eye on the top of the pyramid and to climb as steadily as possible. We may stumble at times and we may leap forward at times. No matter how far we fall backward, however, the road back up is easier since we already know the way.
With all this in mine, I think he meant that we should invest more time in examining our basic goodness and use our personal motivational factors that push up to higher functioning instead of letting others dictate what we need to be.
I think what he is saying is, if you are never yourself, no matter who you are around, you will never really be happy. Those who are around you will either need to except who you are, or move on. If we act like something we are not for along time, how will we ever really know who or what we are? A person needs to fulfill their own dreams and not others. In a classroom, or even with my own kids, I see this often. Kids trying to figure out just who they really are and trying to fit in. If they would just be themselves and not try and impress others, but show those others they are funny, smart, and strong, they will fit in just fine. Easier said then done, it’s all part of growing up.
ReplyDeleteI think he is saying that each and every single one of us have our own unique thoughts and rationale on the world around us. People are going to judge us, make remarks, and try to bring us down, that’s a fact of life. If those thoughts don’t match their own, than we must be in the wrong, right? We must all live life to the fullest, believing in ourselves. Stand up for what we believe, but don’t force others down as we are trying to make our voices heard. Let everyone else around us live their life to the fullest as well. If we don’t, we will live as unhappy people, not getting the full and rich enjoyment out of life that we were intended to have. If we let people walk all over us for speaking our voice and standing up for what we believe is right, than we will pay for this action, or lack thereof, in years to come. We should all try to live in a world where freedom of voice is something we don’t take for granted. We must love and appreciate one another, in all aspects, no matter their beliefs or values. We must live for the moment as well. I liked the end of the statement especially, the part about finding life thrilling. We must remember to not take life too seriously. Accept people for who they are, don’t try to change them or make them believe a certain way. Who knows, they might be able to shed light on your thoughts, but only if you’re willing.
ReplyDeleteI've read Maslow's quote a few times to understand what he is trying to impart on readers. He talks about how judging whether or not there is something wrong with a person's personality depends on who is doing the judging and to what end. Oftentimes the supposed "flaw" is a harmless display used to protest the bullying the person may be experiencing. The one's who protest their treatment are not the ones who are sick. They are being themselves and are standing up for their rights to be themselves without having to buckle to society's expectations of them. The one's who stay silent as they are being bullied are the ones who are at risk. The one's who never stand up for themselves are possibly doomed to a future of psychological pain. By not standing up for themselves, they miss out on acting in ways that bring them happiness and fulfillment. They may go through life never finding the sense of fulfillment that comes with being themselves.
ReplyDeleteSometimes people don't feel they have the power to stand up to those who are keeping them down. Unfortunately, the responsibility lies in those who have decided there is a "problem."
DeleteI think Maslow's quote identifies the underpinnings of privilege. The people who get to decide "normalcy" are those in a position of privilege over other people, whether that privilege is being white, male, Christian, straight, able, upper-class, educated, etc Those with power decide what is "normal" and what is "problematic. When you have the power to decide what normal is, then you have the power to disenfranchise other people. I think of this in response to people on the autism spectrum. To people who are "neurotypical" (i.e. not on the autism spectrum), it may appear that people who are not are in need of psychological help to function in society, to live as as normally as possible. However, when you take into account people like Temple Grandin, who sees her autism as a gift that helps her to understand animals and assist her innovation in ways that others cannot, you can't say that "normal" is better. Normal is simply privilege speaking. Many say the same of other "problems" in our society, especially when it comes to disenfranchised groups. Almost 90% of teachers are white. That means almost all teachers are coming from at least one position of privilege. We need to recognize that, and make sure we don't disenfranchise our students because of it. Sometimes people who don't fit the definition of normalcy have a hard time getting past those who have labeled them "abnormal." It's not up to them to say something, it's up to the group defining normal to recognize their own power and do something about it.
ReplyDeleteIt took me quite awhile to figure this quote out and I am still not sure if i understand the true meaning. I think he is trying to say that individuality is what defines us all. We are all made differently and don't think, feel, or act the same in any situation. I feel that as future educators we have to value this very much. We are going to teach many different students from different backgrounds to different cultures to different races and we have to be accepting of everyone. Some are going to be very outspoken and voice their opinion and others are going to be quite and try and "slide" by with just doing the minimum so they don't get noticed. We have to be ready for all these different situations and be able to respond in the best way for us because we are all different individuals.
ReplyDeleteArgh, my first post got deleted! I'll try to recreate it...
ReplyDeleteBasically, I think Maslow's words highlight the underpinnings of privilege. In our society, the people who have the power to determine and influence what is perceived as "normal" are those with privilege--i.e. those who are male, white, straight, able, upper-class, educated, etc. Some are born with some privileges, some are born with others. And because people falling into these groups often see their world as "the norm," they intentionally or unintentionally disenfranchise other groups.
Note Maslow's language--the patriarchal father--that refers to male privilege. The slave owner--that's white privilege. The dictator--likely class privilege. People who have privilege are the ones who decide what's "normal" and then in order to keep that power, try to label others as abnormal or having "personality problems."
I think of the late 19th early 20th century where many women were put into mental institutions for a vague disease they called "hysteria" or for post-partum depression (for which there was no term or explanation). I also think we still see this privilege today, where certain groups decide what's "normal." When it comes to the autism spectrum, there are a number of neurotypical people (i.e. those not on the spectrum) who believe autism is a disease or problem in need of a cure so that those who have autism can lead more "normal" lives. However, Temple Grandin, a well-known woman on the spectrum, has said that without her autism, she would not have the extraordinary gift of being able to understand animals and come up with innovative, humane solutions for the agriculture industry. She believes that autism is an important part of her personality, and that treatment would strip her of that uniqueness.
Maslow's quote seems to suggest that victims of other peoples' privilege need to speak up, which is incredibly difficult when you are not in a position of power. Society is less likely to listen to you. However, it is also necessary for the rest of society to speak up, both those with and without privilege, to help protect those who are labeled as "abnormal" simply because they are not part of the group in power. It's not enough to say, "Well, it's too bad that you're mistreated. Since I have privilege, though, I don't have that problem. Sorry." Everyone needs more awareness to speak up.
This comes into a very important role in teaching when we consider statistics like 90% of teachers are white. All of them are educated. Many are able-bodied and minded. Teachers have many positions of privilege they need to be aware of, especially so that they don't disenfranchise their students who may not have the same privilege.
*Oh, also, those with privilege in general are having their lower needs met so they are able to focus on higher levels. Not everyone has that luxury, especially when it comes to class privilege.
Argh, my first post got deleted! I'll try to recreate it...
ReplyDeleteBasically, I think Maslow's words highlight the underpinnings of privilege. In our society, the people who have the power to determine and influence what is perceived as "normal" are those with privilege--i.e. those who are male, white, straight, able, upper-class, educated, etc. Some are born with some privileges, some are born with others. And because people falling into these groups often see their world as "the norm," they intentionally or unintentionally disenfranchise other groups.
Note Maslow's language--the patriarchal father--that refers to male privilege. The slave owner--that's white privilege. The dictator--likely class privilege. People who have privilege are the ones who decide what's "normal" and then in order to keep that power, try to label others as abnormal or having "personality problems."
I think of the late 19th early 20th century where many women were put into mental institutions for a vague disease they called "hysteria" or for post-partum depression (for which there was no term or explanation). I also think we still see this privilege today, where certain groups decide what's "normal." When it comes to the autism spectrum, there are a number of neurotypical people (i.e. those not on the spectrum) who believe autism is a disease or problem in need of a cure so that those who have autism can lead more "normal" lives. However, Temple Grandin, a well-known woman on the spectrum, has said that without her autism, she would not have the extraordinary gift of being able to understand animals and come up with innovative, humane solutions for the agriculture industry. She believes that autism is an important part of her personality, and that treatment would strip her of that uniqueness.
Maslow's quote seems to suggest that victims of other peoples' privilege need to speak up, which is incredibly difficult when you are not in a position of power. Society is less likely to listen to you. However, it is also necessary for the rest of society to speak up, both those with and without privilege, to help protect those who are labeled as "abnormal" simply because they are not part of the group in power. It's not enough to say, "Well, it's too bad that you're mistreated. Since I have privilege, though, I don't have that problem. Sorry." Everyone needs more awareness to speak up.
This comes into a very important role in teaching when we consider statistics like 90% of teachers are white. All of them are educated. Many are able-bodied and minded. Teachers have many positions of privilege they need to be aware of, especially so that they don't disenfranchise their students who may not have the same privilege.
*Oh, also, those with privilege in general are having their lower needs met so they are able to focus on higher levels. Not everyone has that luxury, especially when it comes to class privilege.
Maslow is trying to explain how precious and wonderful life is. He is explaining how many people do not get to enjoy life to its fullest because they are being pulled down by others around them who decide to judge them for being themselves. Having a personality different from someone else should not mean that you should be judged for it. One should not listen to the naysayers around them and they should understand that every personality is different and unique in its own way. One should stand up to people who judge them because of their personality or way of life. They should stand up for themselves and live their life the way they choose to live it.
ReplyDeleteWhat I believe he is really referring to is the fact that we have to look beyond ourselves and reflect on others. As individuals functioning in society we will encounter different personalities in our lives. Some of those personalities we will enjoy others we may not, that is part of human nature. What we must be mindful of, there is not a cookie cutter shape out there for human kind. Why do we feels someone has a personality problem or conflict, who is really at fault? Is it the individual we feel this way about, or is there something under our control we can change? Let’s look at this in the realm of education. Can you tell me honestly that as an educator a first grader has a personality problem there for is not worth your time and energy to deal with? Who has the issue? You or the six year old looking to you for guidance and education? We have the ability to influence others, everyone in this world does. It is our superhero ability if you will, but what happens when the hero forgets and stops caring about how others feel even for a moment? They become the villain. When an issue comes up that seems to be a simply case of not seeing eye to eye, this is the time to step away from the situation and emtions involved and look at it from a different angle. Why does the individual act, feel, say or do what they are that you disagree with or fine a problem with? Do they understand what you are saying. Could they be correct and you just do not like the way it sounds, looks, or feels? Higher order thinking does not come easily to some, and perhaps something as a check list can be made to help facilitate that type of thinking, but it must be done. In short, the problem is not the other individual, it’s how we deal with that individual. We must empower ourselves to look beyond our own nose and attempt to do what we are training for, educate ourselves and others.
ReplyDeleteI'll admit that I had to read through that multiple times to really start to get an understanding of what Maslow is trying to say. I believe that he is trying to say that our personality is ours to shape and that often times what we let happen is that other people affect how we feel and how we act. A lot of times people aren't accepting of others and want others to fit into their little perfect bubble. This is not feasible and we sit by and let it happen a lot of the time and then cry foul later on. If we are to truly reach a level of happiness then we must accept ourselves and others around us. By conforming to others we repress ourselves and can never reach that plain of happiness and fufillment.
ReplyDeleteIt seems to me that he is alluding to a "eye of the beholder" scenario. What seems to be personality flaws or disabilities to some may not be to others. Some could view my flaw of not getting ideas out very clearly to be a problem. I find that it simply allows me to rethink a situation several times in a matter of seconds and thus my ideas evolve while i talk. The true problem that Maslow continues with is the fact that people at the end of the finger-pointing do nothing to resolve that problem for themselves. They let it build until it becomes a true psychological problem that may ruin their lives. Teachers have the unique opportunity to have an outsider perspective with their students. They must keep all their senses open to prevent problems from festering and causing situations in the future.
ReplyDeleteI believe that Maslow is trying to explain how everybody is different. Every single person has their own individual personality and no one should be judged or discriminated for their differences. Those who choose to judge and focus on others differences are not fully living life to its fullest. The same can be said for those who choose to let others who judge them and affect their feelings about themselves. One should embrace their individual personality and they should live life to the fullest each and every day. If one does not embrace their own personality, they run the risk of letting their life go by without fully living it.
ReplyDeleteI believe that Maslow is trying to explain how everybody is different. Every single person has their own individual personality and no one should be judged or discriminated for their differences. Those who choose to judge and focus on others differences are not fully living life to its fullest. The same can be said for those who choose to let others who judge them and affect their feelings about themselves. One should embrace their individual personality and they should live life to the fullest each and every day. If one does not embrace their own personality, they run the risk of letting their life go by without fully living it.
ReplyDeleteWow Kyle! I think you were able to verbalize exactly what Maslow was trying to say. All I can say is that this is what I was think, but I was unable to find the words to say it. Great job!
DeleteI think this statement hits on two crucial points in life. The first point is perspective. Generally, the people in power get to decide what is good and bad, therefore if those in control are tyrannical - then those beneath them will suffer. When these people see the individuals “beneath” them begin to change, they know that this would force them to change as well. Instead of being flexible, instead of changing (which would on some level signify the tyrant’s imperfection), the tyrant must maintain control of the people, which may mean employing incredibly mean, degrading, and insulting assaults.
ReplyDeleteThe second point I see, is that the person on the receiving end of the tyrant’s fury knows what is going on, knows how unhealthy the situation is, but decides to stay and weather the storm. This person thereby accepts the assault and carries it with them until they deal with it (with may never happen). Instead of dealing with it, the person is never able to be truly happy, or true to her/him true authentic self because these thoughts are always haunting the unconscious crevices of the person’s mind.
I think the blog ate my post, so here it is again...
ReplyDeleteI think this statement hits on two crucial points in life. The first point is perspective. Generally, the people in power get to decide what is good and bad, therefore if those in control are tyrannical - then those beneath them will suffer. When these people see the individuals “beneath” them begin to change, they know that this would force them to change as well. Instead of being flexible, instead of changing (which would on some level signify the tyrant’s imperfection), the tyrant must maintain control of the people, which may mean employing incredibly mean, degrading, and insulting assaults.
The second point I see, is that the person on the receiving end of the tyrant’s fury knows what is going on, knows how unhealthy the situation is, but decides to stay and weather the storm. This person thereby accepts the assault and carries it with them until they deal with it (which may never happen). Instead of dealing with it, the person is never able to be truly happy, or true to her/him true authentic self because these thoughts are always haunting the unconscious crevices of the person’s mind.
As others have said, I too had to read the quote several time. The first time I read it, I looked more into the examples that Maslow gave. He listed off people that all had very controlling personalities. So my first take on the quote was that some people have bullying type personalities that "crush" other people's personalities and spirits. When the people with the more meek personality do not stand up for themselves, they will never truly be happy or live their lives the way they hoped to. The second time I read it, I looked a little more into the less concrete idea. I then thought of it more as everyone has very different personalities and everyone has an opinion on what is a good personality versus what is a bad personality, but in reality no one has the correct idea of what is best. Each person needs to see what is best for them and when others say it isn't that person needs to stand up for themselves. If you do not embrace your personality, you can never truly be happy or fulfilled. As a whole, I feel like both takes on the quote are fitting.
ReplyDeleteI agree, both takes could be fitting, but I agree more with your second take. People do need to find where they fit and they need to embrace their own personality. I think that it is our job as teachers to show each child that their personality is perfect for them and we should teach them to embrace who they are.
DeleteAs others have said, I too had to read the quote several times. The first time I read it, I looked more into the examples that Maslow gave. He listed off people that all had very controlling personalities. So my first take on the quote was that some people have bullying type personalities that "crush" other people's personalities and spirits. When the people with the more meek personality do not stand up for themselves, they will never truly be happy or live their lives the way they hoped to. The second time I read it, I looked a little more into the less concrete idea. I then thought of it more as everyone has very different personalities and everyone has an opinion on what is a good personality versus what is a bad personality, but in reality no one has the correct idea of what is best. Each person needs to see what is best for them and when others say it isn't that person needs to stand up for themselves. If you do not embrace your personality, you can never truly be happy or fulfilled. As a whole, I feel like both takes on the quote are fitting.
ReplyDeleteMy first initial thought was similar to yours the first time reading it through. After reading over some of my peers' posts after posting my response, I started second guessing the meaning once again. I started thinking a little more deeply than my initial thought of - judging others, standing up for oneself, etc. I like your idea, the idea that perhaps it means that everyone does indeed have personalities and that honestly nobody knows which is best - we all must embrace our own individual personalities in order to be truly happy.
DeleteMaslow's quote reminds me of another quote made by Cameron Tucker a character on the popular series "Modern Family". Like Maslow, Cameron refers to the symbiotic and sometimes twisted relationship between the realists and the dreamers. "You see, the dreamsers need the realists to keep them from soaring too close to the sun. and the realists...well, without the dreamsers, they might not ever get off the ground." I believe Cam's quote is much more positive than that of Maslow. We as educators must recognize the dreamers and allow them to soar rather than pinning them to the ground because as he said, without them, none of us would leave the ground. I believe that Maslow is correct in the idea that if dreams, talents, ambitions, and even wunderlust are left undeveloped or unexplored they can begin to fester in the mind and surface in unhealthy ways. I believe that we would all do well to heed Mark Twain when he said,"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." Through discovery we gain knowledge and experience. Is it sometimes the knowledge of what not to do? Certainly, but it is knowledge all the same. Without the freedom or encouragement to discover, where does the learning take place?
ReplyDeleteWhere did my post go???
ReplyDeleteWell I will try and remember all that I wrote, wouldn't you know, I did not save this one. I think what he is saying is to be yourself for yourself. Don't try and be something you are not. One has to be true to one's self before they can be true to another. I see this in my own children and in the classroom all the time, kids are trying to figure out who they are and where they belong. I tell them to be themselves and others will see how strong and smart they really are. If you act like something you are not, one day you may wake up and wonder who that person is in the mirror. This was not everything I posted, but I have no idea where it went.
ReplyDeleteI re-read this quote numerous times, trying to fully grasp the concept - or at least develop a concept that I understood for its purpose or meaning. All in all I believe that Maslow was implying that we need to be ourselves. In the beginning of the passage, Maslow talked about how often times a judgement of someone's personality is dependent upon whom exactly is doing the judging; thus to me, implying that the person judging and unnecessarily, are the ones with the actual personality issue. Overall, being yourself allows you this sense of 'protective gear' to defend against judgemental people aka society as a whole, at times.
ReplyDeleteI think what Maslow is saying is that there is no true definition of a personality problem. Who ever is doing the judging has their own opinion and that opinion is going to be different than that of other people. What I think might be considered a negative personality someone else might think that they have positive personality because of the way they look at it.
ReplyDeleteShane -
DeleteI agree with you, we all have our own opinions. We need to value others opinion and let it be okay if they are not like our own.
Hanna
First off, I posted this last week and responded and now it is gone! Not sure what is going on here. I will try to re-post what I had but I am not sure it will be as good as I said before.
ReplyDeleteWhat I think Maslow is saying is that people get in their own way. They go through life doing things based on societies acceptance of such lifestyles that they miss out on getting to be truly happy by being themselves. It is sad that before we realize it our time to be ourselves is passed. Life is short and we should do what makes up happy.
He is saying that some people allow others to dictate their life by messing with their mind. As a mother of a five year old, I can see how easy it would be to manipulate his mind and beat him down to think that he is not allowed to have fun or be himself. My son is a smart, happy, sarcastic, and energetic young man because I support that for him. I allow him to be himself, but I could easily go the other way and tell him he is not smart, or funny. If I were to do that then I would be creating a personality problem within him that would not have been there before. I think this is what the guy writing this passage is talking about.
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