Which concept emphasizes realizing one’s potential and achieving peak experiences?

Self-actualization is a key concept in psychology that refers to the process of realizing and fulfilling one’s potential, often associated with achieving peak experiences. This idea originated from Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs, where self-actualization is placed at the top, signifying that once more basic needs (such as physiological and safety needs) are met, individuals can focus on personal growth and the pursuit of meaningful goals.

Self-actualized individuals typically engage in activities that align with their true selves, leading to profound satisfaction and peak experiences characterized by enhanced awareness, creativity, and deep connection to their environment and others. These experiences are often described as moments of deep insight, happiness, or transcendent fulfillment.

In contrast, the other concepts listed do not primarily focus on the realization of potential. Self-esteem relates to one’s sense of worth and how one feels about oneself. Behavioral adaptation involves adjusting behaviors in response to environmental changes, while social compliance refers to conforming to social norms or expectations, which doesn't necessarily relate to personal growth or peak experiences. Hence, the emphasis on potential realization and peak experiences firmly aligns with the concept of self-actualization.