Self-realization and personality change.

Abstract

A new dimension in the nature of man is coming into view in modern psychology.This dimension may be termed the Self .It is the central core, the deep source and foundation of the empirical self, the latter being comprised of constantly changing thoughts, emotions and physical states.The Self may be known and experienced through the transcendence of the normal state of consciousness to a higher level of conscious functioning, known as the "peak" or mystical experience.In both Eastern and Western spiritual disciplines, methods for attaining higher levels of consciousness have been developed over many centuries and are remarkably similar.Self-realization by these methods, it is claimed, can result In increasing integration and growth of the indi- vidual, and the healing of some forms of neurosis.It can lead also to enhanced creativity and improved relationships with others.The present study was an attempt to explore the effects of these methods in promoting personality change in a positive direction along preselected lines.A workshop, in which subjects were taught techniques of meditation, visualization and self-observation, was conducted over a six-month period.Individual meditation programs were worked out for participants-in line with the goal of Self-realization, and vi designed to aid in overcoming personality traits which they perceived as obstacles in the way of reaching that goal.Eighteen subjects com- pleted the workshop.Of these, nine obtained positive change in preselected behavior; two achieved mixed results, i.e., change in some but not all preselected behavior; two obtained change in behavior which was not preselected; four achieved no positive change; and one changed in a negative direction.One interesting finding was that, of six individuals who were identified at the beginning of the workshop as having greater than average problems of adjustment, only one achieved positive change.These results indicate that the workshop program would not by itself be useful as a therapeutic procedure, but for those of average psychological health it may be effective in promoting personality growth and integration, and improved interpersonal relationships.It was concluded that the results lend support to some of the claims of Eastern and Western spiritual traditions.