Criteria of Emotional Maturity

William C. Menninger, MD (1899-1966)
Co-founder of The Menninger Clinic, copyright 1966

• The ability to deal constructively with reality

• The capacity to adapt to change

• A relative freedom from symptoms that are produced by tensions and anxieties

• The capacity to find more satisfaction in giving than receiving
  

• The capacity to relate to other people in a consistent manner with mutual satisfaction and helpfulness
  

• The capacity to sublimate, to direct one’s instinctive hostile energy into creative and constructive outlets
  

• The capacity to love
  

Copyright © 1966 The Menninger Clinic.

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addictive disorders, teaching mental health professionals
and advancing mental healthcare through research.

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Affiliated with Baylor College of Medicine and
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