What is Maslow's hierarchy of needs?

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is indeed a theory that categorizes human needs into a five-tier model, progressing from basic physiological needs to higher-level psychological needs culminating in self-actualization. This theory posits that individuals are motivated to fulfill these needs in a specific order:

1. Physiological needs (such as food, water, and shelter) are at the base of the hierarchy, representing the most basic human requirements for survival.

2. Once physiological needs are met, individuals seek to satisfy safety needs, which include personal security, employment, and health.

3. The next level is social needs, encompassing feelings of belongingness, love, and interpersonal relationships.

4. Esteem needs follow, which involve self-esteem, recognition, and respect from others.

5. At the top of the hierarchy is self-actualization, the desire to realize one's potential and pursue personal growth and peak experiences.

This hierarchical arrangement suggests that individuals must satisfy lower-level needs before they can address higher-level psychological ones, emphasizing the significance of fulfilling basic needs as a foundation for personal development and fulfillment. This understanding has wide applications in psychology, education, and counseling, as it provides insight into human motivation and behavior.