APA Dictionary of Psychology

an inventory intended to measure self-actualization. Originally developed in 1966, it consists of 150 items that each contain two statements descriptive of values or behavior. For each item, the participant selects the statement most descriptive of themself. The POI is scored for two major scales (time ratio, support ratio) plus 10 subscales: self-actualizing value, existentiality, feeling reactivity, spontaneity, self-regard, self-acceptance, nature of man, synergy, acceptance of aggression, and capacity for intimate contact. [developed by U.S. psychologist Everett L. Shostrom (1921–1992)]