Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Definition
Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is a theory in psychology that suggests individuals have a set of needs arranged in a hierarchical order, starting with physiological needs at the base and progressing to self-actualization at the top.
Analogy
Imagine building a pyramid made up of different levels. At the bottom, you have your basic needs like food and water, which are essential for survival. As you move up the pyramid, you encounter needs like safety, love and belongingness, esteem, and finally self-actualization at the peak. Just as each level depends on the one below it for stability, these needs build upon each other.
Related terms
Self-Actualization: The highest level in Maslow's hierarchy where individuals fulfill their potential and achieve personal growth.
Physiological Needs: The basic biological requirements for survival such as food, water, shelter, sleep.
Safety Needs: The need for security, stability, and protection from physical or emotional harm.
"Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs" appears in:
Practice Questions (7)
What is a common critique of Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs?
What is the key criticism of Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs in understanding human motivation?
How did Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs revolutionize our understanding of motivation?
According to Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs, which is the first level that individuals must satisfy?
How does Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs explain motivation according to the humanistic perspective?
What does Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs propose about basic physiological needs like food and sleep?
How did Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs influence the evolution of humanistic psychology?
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.