Flourishing and mental health across the lifespan: Erich Seligman Fromm in psychobiography

Purpose Mental health and flourishing are essential components of leading a meaningful, fulfilled and good life. However, flourishing has hardly been studied across the lifespan in extraordinary individuals through psychobiography. The purpose of this psychobiographical study is to explore the life of Erich Seligman Fromm, a German psychoanalyst, sociologist and social psychologist, with a focus on mental health and flourishing. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a qualitative psychobiographical approach to understand mental health and flourishing in the life of Erich Fromm. Primary and secondary data sources, including his autobiographical and published works, were analysed. Thematic analysis was used, while ethical rigour, reflexivity and methodological integrity guided the research process. Ethical approval was given by the University of Johannesburg. Findings Erich Fromm flourished during his life. Even when experiencing setbacks and challenges, he managed to maintain or regain his mental health and flourishing by drawing on 1. The ability to develop from languishing to mental health and flourishing (Keyes), 2. The support of his family, friends, and other support and 3. Intra-personal, interpersonal and social aspects that allowed him to thrive. Research limitations/implications The study is limited to a psychobiographical study of a single case of Erich Fromm and the exploration of mental health and flourishing through selected theories, including Keyes. Practical implications This psychobiography contributes to the deeper understanding of (re)constructing mental health and flourishing throughout the lifespan. The original findings may help researchers, psychobiographers and psychologists to practically deal with challenges (of self and others) more constructively. Originality/value This psychobiographical analysis of Erich Fromm provides the reader with in-depth insight into his life with special regard to mental health and flourishing. It contributes to flourishing research across the lifespan. Mental health and flourishing throughout life should be researched further and new models need to be developed for enhancing these constructs.