Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

Maslow's hierarchy theory of basic needs of human being. Maslow's hierarchy of needs was first introduced Abraham Maslow's in, 1943.There are five main levels to maslow's hierarchy of needs. The five basic needs from bottom to top or are-

  • Physiological Needs
  • Love and Belongingness Needs
  • Self Actualization
  • Safety Needs
  • Esteem Needs

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1. Physiological Needs - Physiological needs are those required to sustain life, such as-

  • Air
  • Water
  • Food
  • Sleep
  • Sex,
  • Sleep,
  • Shelter,
  • Clothing,
  • Warmth and excreation etc

According to Maslow's theory, if these fundamental needs are not satisfied then one will surely be motivated to satisfy them. Higher needs such as social needs and esteem are not recognized until one satisfies the needs basic to existence.

"Physiological needs are the lowest level of maslow's hierarchy of needs. They are most essential things a person needs to survive."

2. Safety Needs-

Once physiological needs have been met, attention and desire turns to safety and security in order to be free from the threat of psychological and physical harm .

Eg- A sense of security of the self, job security, health security, safe environment etc

3. Love and Belongingness Needs -

Once a person has met the lower level physiological and safety needs, higher level needs awaken. The first level of higher level needs are social needs. Social needs are those related to interaction with others and may include:

  • Friendship
  • Belonging to a group
  • Giving and receiving love
  • Trust

4. Esteem Needs - Once a person feels a sense of "belonging", the need to feel important arises. Esteem needs may be classified as internal or external. Internal esteem needs are those related to self-esteem such as self respect and achievement. External esteem needs are those such as social status and recognition. Some esteem needs are-

  • Self-respect
  • Achievement
  • Attention
  • Recognition
  • Reputation 
  • Self confidence

5. Self Actualization-Self actualization is the highest level of maslow's hierarchy. Self actualization relates to the realization of an individual's full potential.

  • Morality
  • Spontaneity
  • Acceptances
  • Creativity
  • Truth
  • Justice
  • Wisdom etc.

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