Thinking About Studying Psychology Online?

Explore online psychology degree options, including program types, accreditation, costs, career pathways and what to check before choosing a course.

Read The Online Psychology Degree Guide

The Craving To Be Appreciated



potted pink azalea

In April 1896, William James's students at Radcliffe College, sent him a potted Azalea plant. In response, he wrote the following letter to the class.

DEAR YOUNG LADIES, - I am deeply touched by your remembrance. It is the first time anyone ever treated me so kindly, so you may well believe that the impression on the heart of the lonely sufferer will be even more durable than the impression on your minds of all the teachings of Philosophy 2A. I now perceive one immense omission in my Psychology, - the deepest principle of Human Nature is the craving to be appreciated, and I left it out altogether from the book, because I had never had it gratified till now. I fear you have let loose a demon in me, and that all my actions will now be for the sake of such rewards. However, I will try to be faithful to this one unique and beautiful azalea tree, the pride of my life and delight of my existence. Winter and summer will I tend and water it—even with my tears. Mrs. James shall never go near it or touch it. If it dies, I will die too; and if I die, it shall be planted on my grave.

Don't take all this too jocosely, but believe in the extreme pleasure you have caused me, and in the affectionate feelings with which I am and shall always be faithfully your friend,

WM. James.

William James



Photograph of psychology legend William James

(Jan 11, 1842 - Aug 26, 1910)


William James was one of the most eminent figures in the history of psychology, James is best known for his hugely influential work 'The Principles of Psychology,' first published in 1890 and widely regarded as the most important English language psychology book ever.


See following link to learn all about the life and work of psychology legend William James.


William James





This Psychology Symbol - Vintage Retro Striped Sunset T-Shirt is available from Amazon (prime eligible) in a range of colors for women and men. Sales help support this website, which has been providing free and comprehensive information and resources for psychology students and educators since 2008.



Woman wearing Psychology Symbol Vintage Retro Sunset T-Shirt.


Show / Hide

Recent Articles

RSS

  1. Perfectionism: What it is, why it hurts, and how to manage it

    Oct 04, 26 11:56 AM

    Illustration of a woman revising a handwritten draft at a desk surrounded by crumpled discarded pages.
    Explore the psychology of perfectionism, how it differs from healthy high standards, and research-informed ways to reduce its impact on your life.

    Read More

  2. Psychology Expert Interview | Get Featured on All About Psychology

    Sep 24, 26 02:14 PM

    Featured psychology expert interview on All About Psychology
    Get featured on All About Psychology with a professionally prepared expert interview, website publication, newsletter exposure and social promotion.

    Read More

  3. How to stop overthinking and break the cycle

    Sep 24, 26 02:04 PM

    A seated woman faces a colorful abstract collage, illustrating the experience of overlapping thoughts.
    Learn how to stop overthinking, handle repetitive thoughts, ease self-criticism, and make decisions without getting stuck in endless analysis.

    Read More

Please help support this website by visiting the All About Psychology Amazon Store to check out an awesome collection of psychology books, gifts and T-shirts.


Psychology T-Shirts on Amazon
Psychology Gifts on Amazon


Back To The Top Of The Page


Go From The Craving To Be Appreciated Back To The Home Page