An Analysis of Jonas’ Personality Development as Seen From Maslow’s Needs Theory in Lois Lowry’s “The Giver”

Abstract

This study discusses about the personality development of the main character of the novel “The Giver” named Jonas using the needs theory of Abraham Maslow and from psychological point of view. The discussion will be done by classifying Jonas’ needs using The Needs-Fulfillment Model which contains two broad divisions: deficiency needs, including physiological or basic needs, safety needs, and belongingness and love needs; and also growth needs, including esteem needs, divided into self-esteem and esteem for others, and lastly, self-actualization. The fulfillment of these needs must be in order from the lowest to the highest one. In fulfilling these needs, Jonas will have to face conflicts that are required to be solved to move to the higher level of needs. Jonas will encounter a personality development when he has reached the highest level of need, and self-actualize.