The need to belong in Fruits Basket (2019)

The need to belong is something that is important for all of us, like the characters in the anime

Fruits Basket (2019) mentioned in the videos that I use for this reflection. This need is also part of a

broadly-based theory of motivation known as the hierarchy of needs model given to us by psychologist

Abraham Maslow. Before satisfying the need to belong, satisfying bodily needs, like hunger and thirst,

and the need for safety are important. When satisfying these needs is done, or established, then

satisfying, or starting to satisfy, the other needs can be done. These are the need for self-esteem and

the need for self-actualization, which are both about caring more about yourself and realizing your

actual self, or purpose (there is also the need for self-transcendence, but this is basically taking self-

actualization further - it's not always mentioned in this hierarchy, but can be part of it). The need to

belong happens to be in the middle of this hierarchy, so it serves as a balance for the other needs. It

also seems to be the most important one as satisfying this need is how you start to become a more

balanced person.

As I mentioned when I started this post, the need to belong is important for everyone. An example

of this can be seen in the anime Fruits Basket with the characters mentioned in the videos used for this

reflection, as well as the other characters in the anime. For the most part, the main character, mostly

discussed in the first video, interacts with other characters that are hosts for the animals of the zodiac,

as well as other friends. An example of one of these characters the main character interacts with is

mostly discussed in the second video. These videos also talk about their experiences, which is an

important factor in shaping and satisfying this need (and the others too), which is done and seen in

various ways throughout this series, including in the final season of it.

Anime and Manga Lectio