Sunday, April 24, 2011

The Criteria of Emotional Maturity, by William C. Menninger, MD

  • The ability to deal constructively with reality
  • The capacity to adapt to change
  • A relative freedom from symptoms that are produced by tensions and anxieties
  • The capacity to find . . . satisfaction in giving . . . [and] receiving
  • The capacity to relate to other people in a consistent manner with mutual satisfaction and helpfulness
  • The capacity to sublimate, to direct one's instinctive hostile energy into creative and constructive outlets
  • The capacity to love