Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: Definition, Theory & Pyramid

Abraham Maslow

was one of the founders of humanistic psychology, which emphasizes the individual's potential and stresses the importance of growth and self-actualization

Maslow identified five levels of needs in his hierarchy:

physiological needs, safety needs, social needs, esteem needs, and self-actualization needs.

Physiological needs

include the most basic needs that are vital to survival, such as the need for water, air, food, and sleep.

safety needs

These include needs for safety and security

social needs

These include needs for belonging, love, and affection.

esteem needs

These include the need for things that reflect on self-esteem, personal worth, social recognition, and accomplishment.

self-actualization needs

These are a person's desire to become everything he or she is capable of becoming - to realize and use his or her full potential, capacities, and talents.

Maslow himself estimated that less than...of adults achieve total self-actualization.

1%

The order of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, from bottom to top is:

Physiological, Safety, Social, Esteem, Self-Actualization

According to Maslow's hierearchy of needs, when all of the physiological needs are met, people tend to become concerned with whichof the following?

Safety needs

What is the first and most important need highlighted in Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs?

Physiological needs

Which of the following would address safety needs in the classroom?

Limits/rules
Structure and daily routines
Hall monitors

Madeline always feels like she is never included in group activities or social events. She has become depressed and lonely. According to Maslow, which category of needs has not been fulfilled?

Social (love/belonging) needs