Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Definition

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a motivational theory in psychology comprising different levels of human needs, from basic physiological needs to self-actualization and transcendence.

Related terms

Self-Actualization:

The realization or fulfillment of one's talents and potentialities; considered as a drive present in everyone according to Maslow.

Physiological Needs:

These are biological requirements for human survival such as air, food, drink, shelter etc. If these requirements are not met then human body cannot function properly.

Esteem Needs: These include needs for both self-esteem and the esteem a person gets from others. Humans need to engage themselves to gain recognition and have an activity or activities that give the person a sense of contribution, to feel accepted and self-valued.