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:
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Food
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Water
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Sleep
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Shelter
Without these needs, humans cannot focus on anything else.
2. Safety Needs
Once basic needs are met, people seek safety and security:
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Personal safety
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Health and well-being
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Protection from harm
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Stable environment
3. Love and Belonging Needs (Social Needs)
Humans want to feel accepted and connected:
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Friendships
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Family love
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Social groups
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Relationships
4. Esteem Needs
People want respect, recognition, and self-confidence:
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Feeling valued
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Achievements and success
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Independence
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Status and respect from others
5. Self-Actualization (Highest Need)
This is the need to reach full potential and grow as a person:
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Creativity
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Learning and personal growth
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Helping others
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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)
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According to Maslow, which needs must be satisfied first?
a) Esteem needs
b) Love and belonging
c) Physiological needs
d) Self-actualization
Answer: c)
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Which of the following is an example of a safety need?
a) Friendship
b) Food
c) A secure home
d) Creativity
Answer: c)
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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)
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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)
