Maslow’s Hierarchy of Human Needs

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Human Needs

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Human Needs is a psychological theory that explains what motivates people. Abraham Maslow suggested that humans have different levels of needs, and we must satisfy lower-level needs before focusing on higher-level needs. The needs are often represented as a pyramid with five levels.

1. Physiological Needs (Basic Needs)

These are the basic requirements for survival, such as:

  • Food

  • Water

  • Sleep

  • Shelter
    Without these needs, humans cannot focus on anything else.

2. Safety Needs

Once basic needs are met, people seek safety and security:

  • Personal safety

  • Health and well-being

  • Protection from harm

  • Stable environment

3. Love and Belonging Needs (Social Needs)

Humans want to feel accepted and connected:

  • Friendships

  • Family love

  • Social groups

  • Relationships

4. Esteem Needs

People want respect, recognition, and self-confidence:

  • Feeling valued

  • Achievements and success

  • Independence

  • Status and respect from others

5. Self-Actualization (Highest Need)

This is the need to reach full potential and grow as a person:

  • Creativity

  • Learning and personal growth

  • Helping others

  • Achieving goals

In simple words:
We first need to survive, then feel safe, connect with others, gain respect, and finally reach our full potential.


Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

  1. According to Maslow, which needs must be satisfied first?
    a) Esteem needs
    b) Love and belonging
    c) Physiological needs
    d) Self-actualization

Answer: c)

  1. Which of the following is an example of a safety need?
    a) Friendship
    b) Food
    c) A secure home
    d) Creativity

Answer: c)

  1. What do esteem needs involve?
    a) Feeling valued and respected
    b) Finding food and water
    c) Joining a social group
    d) Personal growth

Answer: a)

  1. Self-actualization means:
    a) Meeting basic survival needs
    b) Achieving personal potential and growth
    c) Feeling safe and secure
    d) Having friends and family

Answer: b)

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