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Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory is a psychological theory that suggests humans have a set of innate needs that must be fulfilled in a specific order. These needs, arranged in a pyramid, include physiological needs, safety needs, belongingness and love needs, esteem needs, and self-actualization.

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