Maslow’s hierarchy of needs
Psychologist Abraham H. Maslow developed a theory based around personality and motivation. His theory explains human behaviour and the basic requirements for survival and growth. He has ordered the requirements, or needs, in order of importance and impact on survival and their power to motivate an individual. For example the most basic living needs of a person such as food and water are placed at the bottom of the hierarchy; these are the needs that must be met before any other part of the hierarchy. As you get closer to the top of the hierarchy it involves needs which are we don’t rely on to survive, but more to growing in our environment and well-being. These needs are affected by factors such as education and life experiences. This theory is usually shown in the form of a pyramid, with the basic survival needs at the bottom and the more psychological needs placed towards the top.
The following levels are specified in Maslow’s hierarchy:
Physiological needs – These needs include things like food, water, warmth and oxygen; All the things that most people take for granted. These are basic living standards which must be met in order to achieve anything further up in the hierarchy, when these needs aren’t met people will focus on achieving and maintaining them rather than focusing on anything higher.
Safety and security – Once the physiological needs are met, people then focus on their safety and security needs. This includes being able to feel safe and free from any danger/harm that might happen, but it also covers social and employment stability. Maslow thought that these needs not being met can explain neurotic behaviour and other behavioural problems.
Love and belonging – Once safety and physiological needs have been met, love and belonging needs tend to emerge. This includes wanting to be part of a friendship circle and also to start an intimate relationship with somebody. We begin to long for a connection with someone...
