Understanding Maslow's Hierarchy: A Guide to Human Needs
School
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi**We aren't endorsed by this school
Course
NUR SURGICAL N
Subject
Psychology
Date
Dec 11, 2024
Pages
6
Uploaded by MegaJayMaster1159
1Maslow and His LegacyStudent's NameInstitutional AffiliationInstructorDate
2Maslow and His LegacyMaslow's hierarchy of needs represents a fundamental psychological theory that elucidates human motivation through a structured framework of essential human requirements. Developed by Abraham Maslow in 1943, this hierarchical model conceptualizes human needs as a progressive series of motivational stages, each building upon the previous level. The theory assumes that human behaviours is not aimless, but it follows a certain pattern of need of satisfaction in a hierarchical manner. Modern psychological investigations also support and expand on the meaning of this theoretical concept and prove its importance in explaining the actions of people in the present days (Ștefan et al., 2020).Physiological Needs: The Foundation of Human SurvivalPhysiological needs are basic needs that are pivotal in the hierarchy, the fundamental need in the life of a person. These include non-physiological requirements which involve air, water, food, shelter, sleep, and homeostasis which are physiological in nature. These are not merewants but they are fundamental physiological requirements that should be fulfilled, to enable a person perform his or her tasks adequately. People who are hungry, thirsty or sleepy cannot perform complex tasks as all their psychological and physical energy has been partially or fully devoted to satisfying these needs. Modern neuro-psychological research has only confirmed the significance of these basic needs for the construction of personal life and good psychological health (Vansteenkiste et al., 2020). When the above basic physiological needs are not met, humanbeings experience considerable psychological and physical discomfort to the point that the higher-level motivational pursuits become a mere impossibility. In other words, the needs motivate us and direct all our psychological activities in an effort to gain these necessities through the body’s survival mechanisms.
3Safety Needs: Establishing Personal SecurityThe hierarchy then follows that once physiological needs are met to a certain extent people look for safety. This level includes security, financial security, physiological security and physical/emotional security. Safety needs are met through different channels; the need to attain a steady job, health insurance, emergency funds, and secure homes among others are essentials of safety needs. People instinctively seek the ability to structure their lives to decrease stress and maintain stability as a basis for their development. Children, in particular, demonstrate the importance of safety needs through their reliance on consistent routines, stable family environments, and protection from physical threats. Contemporary research suggests that persistent uncertainty or perceived threats can significantly impede an individual's ability to progress beyond this stage, highlighting the intricate relationship between perceived safety and psychological development. Economic instability, chronic health concerns, or persistent social conflicts can trap individuals in a perpetual state of survival mode, preventing them from exploring higher-level personal and emotional needs.Social Needs: Belonging and Interpersonal ConnectionsThe third tier of Maslow's hierarchy focuses on social needs, emphasizing human connection, love, and belongingness. This stage involves establishing meaningful relationships, experiencing friendship, intimacy, family bonds, and social group membership. Humans fundamentally require emotional connections and a sense of acceptance within their social networks. The craving for acceptance is so strong that loneliness results in psychological dysfunction, depression, and decreased quality of life. Studies in psychology have time and againestablished the importance that social relationships play in addressing mental health issues, coping mechanisms, and well-being (Vansteenkiste et al., 2020). Interpersonal relationship
4enables one to feel valued, open up new possibilities for self-development and give one an idea of who one is or is becoming. In love affairs, friendships, relatives, and social organizations, people crave to have worth, to be appreciated, and to feel being cared for in the society.Esteem Needs: Recognition and Self-ValuationEsteem needs are the fourth level that has external esteem and self-esteem. The accomplishment stage requires attaining personal achievements, getting acceptance from other people, attaining self-esteem, and gaining a sense of proficiency. People want to attain recognition and acceptance of their social circles while in the process of creating a healthy self-image. The academic accomplishment, professional achievements, and social recognition help in fulfilling all these complex psychological needs. At this level, people work for the need for appreciation for the work done, ability, and talent exhibited. Esteem needs can be achieved by striving for a promotion at work, preserving a high GPA, painting or writing, or becoming an expert in a particular area. It is important for both external and internal validation as they play animportant role in defining an individual’s worth and capacity.Self-Actualization: Realizing Individual PotentialThe final component of need hierarchy is self-actualization in which the individuals strivefor continious growth, self-creativity, seeking of peak experiences and optimum usage of talent. This stage goes further than the social recognition seeking, self-actualization, and encountering life tasks. However, not all organizations’ members achieve this level because it is possible to pass through hierarchical levels and fail to meet requirements of the previous level (Ștefan et al., 2020). Self-actualized individuals are characterized by creativity, spontaneity, problem-solving skills, and a deep acceptance of themselves and others. They are driven by personal growth,
5continuous learning, and the desire to reach their full potential, often engaging in activities that provide deep personal satisfaction and contribute to broader societal well-being.
6ReferencesȘtefan, S. C., Popa, Ș. C., & Albu, C. F. (2020). Implications of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory on healthcare employees’ performance. Transylvanian Review of Administrative Sciences, 16(59), 124-143. https://doi.org/10.24193/tras.59E.7Vansteenkiste, M., Ryan, R. M., & Soenens, B. (2020). Basic psychological need theory: Advancements, critical themes, and future directions. Motivation and emotion, 44(1), 1-31.