Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological theory proposed by Abraham Maslow in 1943. The theory suggests that human needs can be arranged in a hierarchical order, with basic needs at the bottom and higher-level needs at the top. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is often depicted as a pyramid with five levels:
Physiological Needs:
These are the most fundamental needs required for human survival. They include air, water, food, shelter, clothing, and sleep. Until these basic physiological needs are met, higher-level needs are not significant motivators.
Safety Needs:
Once physiological needs are satisfied, individuals seek safety and security. This includes physical safety, financial security, health and wellness, and protection from accidents or harm.
Love and Belongingness Needs:
With physiological and safety needs met, people desire social connections and relationships. This includes the need for love, affection, friendship, and a sense of belonging to a group or community.
Esteem Needs:
After the lower-level needs are satisfied, individuals seek self-esteem and the esteem of others. This involves building confidence, achieving goals, gaining recognition, and feeling valued. There are two components: the need for self-respect and the need for respect from others.
Self-Actualization:
At the top of the hierarchy is the concept of self-actualization. This involves the realization of one's full potential, personal growth, creativity, problem-solving, and a deep understanding of oneself.
Maslow proposed that individuals move through these needs in a sequential manner, starting with the physiological needs at the base of the pyramid. Once a lower-level need is satisfied, it no longer serves as a strong motivator, and attention shifts to the next level of needs. It's important to note that not everyone follows this exact progression, and individuals may address multiple needs simultaneously.
While Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs has been influential in psychology, it's also been criticized for its lack of empirical support and the oversimplification of human motivation. Nevertheless, it remains a widely known and discussed concept in the study of motivation and behavior.
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