Maslow's hierarchy

Maslow's hierarchy


Maslow's hierarchy of needs

Abraham Maslow introduced the concept of a hierarchy of needs which is essentially a theory of motivation.

At the bottom of the hierarchy are the most basic needs. He proposed that a person would only become concerned with the needs of a particular level when all the needs of the lower levels had been satisfied. Hence a person will not be motivated to address their social needs if they have outstanding physiological needs such as the need for food and water.

  • Level 5 (most advanced) - Self-actualisation (quest to achieve full potential, e.g. Needs for truth and meaning)
  • Level 4 - Esteem needs (e.g. Social recognition, personal worth)
  • Level 3 - Social needs (e.g. Feelings of love and belonging)
  • Level 2 - Safety needs (e.g. Roof over your head, financial security)
  • Level 1 (most basic) - Physiological needs (e.g. Air, water)