Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Understanding the five levels of human needs and how they motivate behavior, from basic physiological needs to self-actualization.
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Maslow, A. H. (1943). A Theory of Human Motivation. *Psychological Review*, 50, 370–396. The 1943 original is in the public domain.
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Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Abraham Maslow proposed in 1943 that human needs are arranged in a hierarchy. Lower-level needs must be satisfied before higher-level needs become motivating.
The Five Levels
1. Physiological Needs (Base)
Basic survival needs: air, water, food, shelter, sleep, clothing, reproduction. These are the most fundamental and must be met first.
2. Safety Needs
Security and stability: personal security, employment, resources, health, property. We seek predictability and protection from harm.
3. Love and Belonging
Social needs: friendship, intimacy, family, sense of connection. Humans are social beings who need meaningful relationships.
4. Esteem Needs
Self-respect and recognition: respect from others, status, recognition, strength, freedom. We need to feel valued and competent.
5. Self-Actualization (Peak)
Reaching your full potential: creativity, problem-solving, acceptance, meaning. Becoming the best version of yourself.
How This Applies to You
Understanding where you are in this hierarchy can help identify what needs attention. If you're struggling with higher-level needs, consider whether lower-level needs are being adequately met.
Reflection Questions
Prompts you can use yourself or share with a client.
- 1
Which level of the hierarchy do you feel most secure in?
- 2
What areas of your life might need more attention based on this model?
- 3
How might addressing lower-level needs help you pursue higher goals?
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