A Model of Human Existence

Body

Involves the physical body including such aspects as nutrition, exercise, and rest.

(Persons have bodies entailing physical nature, gender, sexuality, and behaviour in the natural world.)

Mind

Involves the need for intellectual stimulation such as through challenging one’s thinking and behaviour.

(Persons have minds involving thinking and reasoning – involving the structure and content of cognitive processes.)

Spirit

Involves the capacity for belief in a higher power which gives a sense of purpose, belonging, and worth.

(Persons have wills and can make decisions – entailing intentions and judgments. They also have intuition, and aspects of character, personality, imagination, and values.)

Emotions

Involves one’s perspective on life, view of others, and estimation of oneself.

(Persons have feelings and the affective dimension of their lives – they are sensitive to feelings, motivations, and attitudes.)

Socialization

Involves a network of relationships including one’s family, friends, and the community.

(Persons are in community involving relationships with other persons, groups, institutions, and social structures.)