selftranscendence

Self-transcendence refers to the process or quality of extending beyond personal concerns, boundaries, or self-identity to connect with larger purposes, others, or a perceived higher order. The term combines the Latin transcendere "to go beyond" and is used across psychology, philosophy, and spirituality to describe experiences of meaning, altruism, and values-based living.

Historically, self-transcendence is associated with Abraham Maslow’s later theory, which positioned self-transcendence as a motive that emerges after self-actualization and drives people toward service, unity with something greater, or the welfare of others. Viktor Frankl’s logotherapy emphasizes meaning that transcends the self and external conditions. In religious and philosophical traditions, self-transcendence is linked to aligning life with ultimate realities, ethical duties, and communal well-being.

In modern psychology, self-transcendence is studied as a dimension of well-being, meaning in life, and resilience. Researchers explore how spirituality, awe, gratitude, and prosocial behavior relate to flourishing, and how cultivating mindfulness, altruistic action, and engagement with transcendent concerns can foster growth beyond the self.

Relation to related concepts varies; it is often viewed as extending or redefining self-actualization rather than replacing it. Some models treat self-transcendence as a developmental trajectory or ongoing process that integrates personal fulfillment with concern for others and for the wider world.

See also: transcendence, meaning in life, spirituality, Maslow, Viktor Frankl, prosocial behavior.