2.8:
Maslow’s Theory of Basic Human Needs
Maslow's theory posits that human needs follow a hierarchical structure where basic needs propel the individual to seek higher needs. Humans, therefore, are motivated by the intrinsic need for self-actualization.
According to Maslow's theory, physiological needs, such as food and water, are the basic needs of an individual required to sustain life.
After fulfilling their physiological needs, an individual strives for the next stage that focuses on safety and security needs and where they attempt to avoid the risk of physical and emotional harm.
Once the lower levels have been satisfied, a person tries to meet the higher levels.
Social needs involve the need to love and be loved. It gives a sense of belonging and acceptance. For example, having a close group of friends.
The need to feel important develops when a person experiences a sense of belonging. Self-esteem is the need for respect from others, and self-respect includes competence, self-confidence, and independence.
At the highest level of Maslow's hierarchy of needs is self-actualization. It represents the need to reach one's greatest potential through personal development and acceptance of oneself and others. It can only be achieved once other human needs are met.
2.8:
Maslow’s Theory of Basic Human Needs
Maslow's hierarchy is described with the help of a pyramidal shape. The most fundamental needs, physiological needs, are at the bottom of the pyramid.
Physiological needs such as hunger, thirst, sex, physical comfort, and survival are at the bottom of the pyramid. These are the components that are necessary to sustain life. Once the first level of needs has been met, the second level arises.
Safety needs include stability and predictability. Protection and freedom from danger are all a part of the need for security. An individual's need for a stable and secure environment is at the heart of these feelings.
Love and a sense of belonging emerge from the first two levels of need. The individual's desire for companionship, a family, and a sense of belonging to a variety of groups is fueled by these needs.
As the previous needs are met, a new need for self-esteem arises. The desire to be respected, trusted, and admired by others and oneself is part of this level.
Self-actualization is the last need in the growth of an individual. According to Maslow, the individual must first satisfy the preceding need to achieve this state of personal fulfillment.
Although Maslow explains that not everyone ascends this hierarchy sequentially, there are exceptions. A person may go against his safety to save someone else or a valuable object. This does not mean that once lower-level needs are met, higher-level needs go into an inactive state or become inactive. Higher level needs are necessary to inspire and to continue in a positive direction in life.