Personality Theory and Spiderman: A Comparative Psychological Analysis

This essay provides a comprehensive analysis of Spiderman's personality, examining him through the frameworks of humanistic and social cognitive theories. The essay begins by introducing these two psychological perspectives and then applies them to Spiderman, focusing on how his actions as both a superhero and a normal human being, Peter Parker, are shaped by these theories. The core argument centers on the applicability of Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs, particularly self-actualization, to Spiderman's motivations and behaviors. It explores how Spiderman's drive to help others and his personal endeavors reflect his striving for self-realization. Furthermore, the essay considers the influence of social cognitive theory, acknowledging the impact of his relationships and observations on his character development. The conclusion emphasizes the dominance of humanistic theory, specifically self-actualization, in explaining Spiderman's actions and decisions, highlighting his inherent desire to serve a greater good. The analysis is supported by references to relevant psychological literature, providing a robust academic foundation. This assignment is available on Desklib, a platform offering AI-based study tools and resources.

Running head: PERSONALITY THEORY AND ISSUES
PERSONALITY THEORY AND ISSUES
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author note

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Introduction.
Humanistic theory and Social Cognitive theory are the two psychological theories that
become quite relevant in the current essay (Cherry, 2013; Bandura, 2014). Spiderman, as my
chosen superhero displays a blend of both these characteristic traits when it comes to his actions
both as a superhero and as a normal human being. The rationale for choosing Spiderman as my
superhero of choice is that he displays characteristics that are common to both normal human
beings and super-powered human beings who work for the betterment of society and the people.
This essay draws forth reserves from both the psychological theories as mentioned above and
analyses Spiderman as a superhero under these paradigms, which one stands out as the
appropriate and more conclusive theory in a social context.
Discussion.
The humanistic theory states that humans have certain unique characteristics like the
constant need for self - determination and self-actualization or self-realization that distinguishes
them from animals. Within this context, one prominent theory that becomes quite relevant is that
of the ‘Hierarchy of needs’ by Abraham Maslow (Lester, 2013). This theory presents a series of
human needs that drives a human to work in a particular way. In the current context, the highest
stage in the hierarchy of needs becomes important. The highest rung states that humans strive to
understand their full potential, something known as self-actualization or realization (Lester,
2013). Looking at the case of Spiderman from both the perspectives of a superhero and the
human being named Peter Parker, we can observe that self-actualization is playing a vital role in
both the contexts. As a superhero, Spiderman always strives to work in a manner that provides
support to the people in need. In doing so, as well as while fighting crime in the city committed

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by both normal human criminals and super – powered villains, Spiderman pushes himself to the
limits trying to understand his potential (Cherry, 2013). Similarly, as Peter Parker too, he
attempts to manage his job, his relationship as well as his aunt, just like a normal human being.
There too, his drive for self - actualization is evident (Lester, 2013).
Coming to the social cognitive theory, it states that the characteristics of a person are
determined by observing others in the social context, particularly the interactions and actions the
person shares with others (Bandura, 2014; Young et al., 2014). Spiderman looks up to the actions
of other superheroes not only for inspiration, but also for amending his own actions. However, as
Peter Parker too, his actions are greatly influenced by his late father, his late uncle Ben and his
aunt May, as well as Mary Jane, his girlfriend. This shows that alongside self - actualization,
social cognition also plays a vital role in the development of Spiderman as a characteristic
human being and superhero (Young et al., 2014).
Conclusion.
In conclusion, it can be stated that in the case of Spiderman, the one theory that works the
best is the humanistic theory, particularly the highest strata of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. His
drive for self-actualization is more evident in his actions, particularly because as a superhero,
despite his actions being influenced by others, he still has to make decisions that serve a greater
good. Realizing his self-potential is therefore a stronger attribute that can be attached to him.

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References.
Bandura, A. (2014). Social cognitive theory of moral thought and action. In Handbook of moral
behavior and development (pp. 69-128). Psychology Press.
Cherry, K. (2013). The five levels of Maslow's hierarchy of needs. How Maslow's Famous
Hierarchy Explains Huma Motivation.
Lester, D. (2013). Measuring Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Psychological Reports, 113(1), 15-
17.
Young, M. D., Plotnikoff, R. C., Collins, C. E., Callister, R., & Morgan, P. J. (2014). Social
cognitive theory and physical activity: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Obesity
Reviews, 15(12), 983-995.