Psychological Analysis of Arthur Miller’s All My Sons Through Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Abstract

The present study employs qualitative textual analysis, supported by close reading of Arthur Miller’s All My Sons, to explore the factors motivating the characters’ behaviors and actions as they strive to maintain psychological stability amid family chaos. While critics and scholars have focused on themes such as responsibility, loyalty, denial, and the American Dream, less attention has been given to examining the characters’ motivations in All My Sons through the lens of Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Drawing on Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the study examines how the characters in All My Sons, including Joe Keller, Kate Keller, Chris Keller, and Ann Deever, are psychologically motivated to fulfill their needs. The study argues that the characters in  All My Sons are driven by psychological motivational tendencies that shape their decision-making, self-esteem, love, and belonging. Thus, following Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the analysis shows that the characters’ actions are built based on unmet physiological, self-esteem, love and belonging, and self-actualization needs. The study, then, finds that Joe Keller’s  decisions stem from prioritizing physiological and safety needs, while Kate’s denial functions as a psychological defense against threats to family bonds and stability. Chris Keller’s crisis reflects the collapse of his self-esteem and identity, and Ann Deever’s pursuit of truth signals a movement toward higher-order needs.